Online Reporter
Solomon Bhunu
Entertainment Reporter
RUSAPE-BASED poet, Fabian Choto, is making a notable mark on Zimbabwe’s literary and social scene through his powerful use of poetry as a vehicle for cultural pride, advocacy, and social change.
Writing in both Shona and English, Choto has authored acclaimed works such as Wajaira and Wisdom and Foolishness.
His poetry has been showcased on national platforms, including the ZBC programme Muninga Dzepfungwa, and featured in collections like Chingoma Chokwedu, Dzinobva Muropa, Essential Verses, and Dancing in the Dust.
His latest project, Ruzha Rwananyanduri, is a collective anthology that brings together voices of various poets to promote inclusivity and moral growth.
The collection explores universal themes of love, sorrow, resilience, and hunhu/ubuntu, while also addressing pressing issues such as drug abuse among youths.
In the anthology, Choto contributes poems including Shungu Dzemoyo, Guhwa Ndimambara, and Siya Guka Urarame.
The latter is a hard-hitting commentary on the dangers of substance abuse, urging young people to embrace healthier, more hopeful futures.
“This collection is more than poetry − it is a moral compass,” said Choto.
“Ruzha Rwananyanduri speaks to our shared humanity, reminding us that hunhu/ubuntu is, not just a philosophy, but a call to action. My poems are a mirror to the society.
They speak of healing, resisting harmful choices, celebrating love, and protecting our children. Through these verses, I hope to inspire reflection, growth, and unity in every heart that reads them.”
Choto’s work also extends to Gate ReNhetembo, where he delves deeper into child rights and cultural values.
Poems such as Ndirimwana advocate for the education and protection of the girl child, while Hunhu Hwevanhu highlights respect, discipline, and cultural upbringing as key virtues for youths.
“My poetry, rooted in Shona culture, is not just art − it is a vessel for memory and identity,” Choto explained.
“I write so that a child in Mutare or Gokwe can hear their grandmother’s voice in verse, can see themselves in our heritage.
“When language dies, so does the heartbeat of a people. That is why I stand with educators − to make our ancestral wisdom part of every lesson, every classroom, every generation.”
Beyond his literary work, Choto serves as a police chaplain and Assistant Inspector at Rusape Central Police Station, showing that artistic passion and professional duties can coexist.
His journey reflects the resilience of many Zimbabwean artists, who face significant challenges in getting their works published and supported.
“There is a silent struggle behind every project we write,” Choto noted.
“Without fame or funding, poets like myself are often sidelined. Publishing delays and community voices telling us poetry won’t put food on the table − these are real barriers.
“But I believe words hold power. Even when the world calls it worthless, I write to preserve, heal, and remind us who we are.”
Through his craft, Fabian Choto continues to champion heritage, advocate for social justice, and inspire communities with messages of hope, love, and unity − proving that poetry remains a vital force in shaping Zimbabwe’s cultural identity.
