The event is meant to promote traditional poetry and the Setswana language. The organisers of the event said the show is getting bigger and better with time. It is organised by Emmanuel ‘Mmasekgethu’ Boefelo and Edwing ‘Serurubele’ Moroka, in partnership with Thapong Visual Arts Centre.In an interview, Boefelo said the opening show for this year will be held on February 28.
He explained that when they decided to host Nwa Ya Puo a few years back, they were inspired by seeing that traditional or folk poetry did not get enough exposure compared to other creatives. He also said they aimed to promote the Setswana language, tradition and poetry. “We are trying to sell traditional poetry to the public. We have realised that local traditional poets do not get the recognition they deserve just like other creatives from different entertainment sectors. Unlike previously where we hosted the event annually, we will be now hosting it monthly. We intend to expand our audience and get the public interested in traditional poetry. Since we are partnering with Thapong, we are confident that their clients will be aware of our poetry festivals and come in large numbers,” he said. Boefelo explained that hosting Ntwa Ya Puo monthly would accord those who missed the previous ones an opportunity to attend the next shows.
He further stated that they will be announcing the March event dates soon. He said for the upcoming February event, they have invited several popular local poets such as Moroka Moreri, Lame Pusetso also famed as Poetic Blood and Sekhutlhana sa Bannye club kids to name but just a few. He added that the show is targeting Setswana language enthusiasts, traditional poetry and students.
He said people still treat such festivals like an occasional activity because there are a few poetry events. He explained that they would like to change the narrative and make people appreciate and celebrate traditional poetry. He also said he longed for the day poetry events are attended like any other big events across various creative industries. He, however, pointed out that several Batswana have started appreciating traditional poetry since they were aware that it is a rare skill.
