The City of Gold’s vibrant cultural scene welcomes the return of the 28th Poetry Africa Festival, a three-day celebration of rhythm, rhyme, and raw emotion.
From today until October 5, the festival, hosted by UJ Arts and Culture, promises an unforgettable celebration of words, paying homage to one of South Africa’s literary giants, Keorapetse Kgositsile.
The festival kicks off with a memorial lecture in honour of Kgositsile, a renowned poet and literary icon who passed away in 2018.
The Keorapetse Kgositsile Memorial Lecture, presented by Dr Uhuru Phalafala and hosted by Siphindile Hlongwa, will delve into the profound influence Kgositsile had on the world of poetry, and his lasting legacy in the literary world.
Poetry enthusiasts will be treated to an array of performances and discussions from some of the globe’s most influential wordsmiths, including renowned Lebo Mashile, Afurakan, Makhosazana Xaba, Frank Meintjies, and Sarah Godsell. Pieter Jacobs, Head of UJ Arts and Culture, expressed his excitement about hosting the festival in Johannesburg, marking the third time Poetry Africa graces the city.
Jacobs highlights the festival’s significance: “For us, it is a particularly exciting iteration of the festival as UJ Arts and Culture will present its brand-new spoken word production, ‘(R)evolution of Words,’ written and curated by award-winning poet Lebo Mashile, and directed by Jade Bowers. This production explores both the South African poetry canon and contemporary voices, featuring poems from the Grade 11 and 12 curricula alongside modern poets who reflect and challenge today’s zeitgeist.”
The Poetry Africa Festival is not only a stage for established voices but also a platform for emerging talents.
Jacobs points out that the festival offers young artists and students a unique opportunity to showcase their work while engaging with a broader audience, thus fostering the next generation of poets and cultural enthusiasts.
“With a rich history of spotlighting diverse voices from across the world, Poetry Africa’s return to Johannesburg this year promises to be a key highlight on the cultural calendar.”
The celebration of Kgositsile’s legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of poetry and its ability to inspire, challenge, and bring people together.
As Jacobs articulates: “The Keorapetse Kgositsile Memorial Lecture celebrates the legacy of one of Africa's most influential poets. This event will explore Kgositsile’s profound impact on poetry and his contributions to the literary world.”
As Johannesburg transforms into a haven for poets and enthusiasts alike, the festival stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Kgositsile and the vibrant soul of African poetry.
The Star