Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
Poetry is an expression that evokes one’s emotions – it’s a healing therapy, one that helps us process emotions, make sense of the world, and find comfort.
One poetry gem who has proven to have mastered the demanding artistry that comes with weaving appealing quatrains and ballads, is South Africa based wordsmith Mkhululi Nyathi, who originally hails from Gwamayaya, Nkayi in Matabeleland North under chief Sikhobokhobo.
Having attended his education at Tsheli primary and secondary, Nyathi’s passion for poetry started with enjoyment and enthusiasm he developed whenever it was a Ndebele Literature period.
He would volunteer and enjoy reading-out Ndebele Language set books and poetry for the whole class – something that boosted him with poetry skills that he is applying in his professional career.
Nyathi is a poetry jewel – one that has to be protected at all cost as his craft preserves the rich Ndebele culture.
His unique perspective on everyday life has long been a subject of admiration.
His profound understanding of the world around him is matched only by the richness of his Ndebele language and the maturity of his insights.
For years, those who have had the privilege of hearing him speak have urged him to commit his thoughts to paper, and it is a testament to his talent that his words have been deemed worthy of a wider audience.
“My muse lies in the unwavering love and support bestowed upon me by those who have been touched by my art. The encouragement I receive from every individual who has been introduced to my work serves as a perpetual source of inspiration.
“Furthermore, I am deeply indebted to my manager Gugulethu Nkomo, whose guidance and backing have been instrumental in nurturing my creative endeavours,” said Nyathi – a distinguished wordsmith of note.
To date, Nyathi’s literary endeavours have culminated in the publication of an album which boasts nineteen poignant poems.
One piece in the anthology that has caught the attention of many poetry enthusiasts is the thought-provoking Silithathe Kumbe Silibisele.
The poem is a work that continues to resonate with audiences and further solidify his presence in the realm of poetry, with thematic concerns of ubuntu, soldiering on and unity.
Nyathi is a man who is working around the clock for his poetry work to be known out there because he believes it has a strong message that evokes any kind of emotions.
“Presently, I am immersed in the preparation of my inaugural one-man poetry show, slated to take place in Johannesburg. Whilst the precise date remains pending, an official announcement shall be forthcoming in due course.
“To make sure I always stay relevant in the game, I have entered into a partnership with The Movement Noize Productions. This collaboration holds great potential for my future projects,” said Nyathi.
As a young poet who wants to achieve more and be known in Bulawayo and beyond, Nyathi aspires to be part of headliners at this year’s edition of Intwasa Arts Festival koBulawayo set to run from 34 to 27 September.
