Chronicle Editor
Mbulelo Mpofu, Showbiz Reporter
Up-and-coming IsiNdebele poet Jotham Masuku has made it his life’s mission to help his age mates desist from irresponsible behaviour through the use of poems.
Masuku who hails from Bulawayo said moral decadence and criminal activities by youths are rampant and his poems seek to try to arrest that behaviour.
“Our moral fibre is deteriorating by the day and it’s sad because most of the time, you hear news of youths committing despicable acts of violence. So, I’ve taken it upon myself to play my civic duty and reason with my fellow youths for a better society,” said Masuku.
The Nkayi-born poet who has been partially blind since 2011 wished to be a singer and poet from a tender age, inspired by the late South African Maskandi artiste, Ikhansela.
“Since I was a child, I have always wished to be a singer and a poet. I’d collect any Ikhansela no jbc item I would get my hands on. He inspired me and I started composing my own stuff and performing live at school and family gatherings. Since 2019, I haven’t looked back, “he said.
So far, Masuku has recorded a few poems laced with messages of positivity, praise for God, disdain for moral decadence and call for patriotism. He has recorded Ebenezzer, Qaphela and Izidakamizwa.
“I love my country and, therefore, wish to build its reputation in any way I can. I subscribe to the national philosophy, ‘Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabaninilo’. To fight crime, I use poetry to try to help youths make informed decisions and not turn to crime,” said the 22-year-old poet.
Masuku also said he is set out to show people that, “You do not need eyes to see”.
“Living with a disability is not a death sentence or a drawback. You don’t need eyes to see, ears to hear and feet to walk, but just the grace of God to make it happen. I’d like to urge my fellow people living with disabilities not to fear coming out of their shells and expressing their God-given talent.
“It’s my destiny to be a living testimony that disability doesn’t mean inability,” he shared.
Masuku went on to invite well-wishers and corporates to lend a hand in advancing his trade.
“I usually face financial challenges when I need to record my poems. Vocal recording sessions are costly and sometimes beyond my reach. So, I’d like to call on well-wishers to help me realise my dreams by funding studio sessions and also help me upload my art online,” he said. – @eMKlass_49
Online Reporter