Online Reporter
Latwell Nyangu
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AN author and poet believes children should be taught about their culture through poetry and folktales.
Despite Tebeth Dirani, 57, popularly known as Mbuya Chanetsa, has written several poems in Shona and an English novel titled ‘My Obsession, My Addiction’.
“I create engaging stories and enjoy teaching children about culture and social norms.
“It is my wish that my voice reaches every child across the country through various platforms.
“I have released four poetry books in collaboration with other poets, including Maungira eDzimbahwe, Nzviru Parurimi, Ruzha RwavanaNyanduri, Gate Renhetembo and I have also worked with Dr Penyai.
“In addition, I have a novel called My Obsession, Your Addiction. Two other books are still with the publisher and will be ready soon.”
Mbuya Chanetsa, now enjoying her retirement after years working as a police officer, holds a diploma in counselling, which she also uses to help her community in Sally Mugabe Heights.
“Since I am no longer working, I visit schools in my area to teach about drug and substance abuse as well as the rights of children and women.
“My passion is to instil good manners in children and in the church I serve as a child superintendent.
“I perform folktales and skits that teach children about culture and good behaviour.
“I draw inspiration from my surroundings and sometimes ideas just come to me.”.
Mbuya Chanetsa runs a YouTube channel.
“I have a channel which is called Young Challengers TV.
“The whole idea is to catch up with a generation that is tech-savvy so that they also get information from different platforms.
“It is my wish to have a slot on television or in the newspapers so that my voice reaches many of these children.”
Mathew Masinge