Poet Majaha Nkonyane to facilitate Hhohho Open Mic event

By Siphesihle Dlamini

Majaha Nkonyane, an acclaimed poet from Eswatini, is poised to lead the upcoming Hhohho Open Mic Poetry Session.

Organised by the Eswatini National Poetry Session, this gathering will take place on November 15, 2025, at noon in Coronation Park, Mbabane, with free entry welcoming all poetry enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

Nkonyane’s journey with poetry is deeply personal and transformative. Reflecting on his relationship with the art form, he shared, “Poetry has been a big part of my life for ages now.

I found identity, comfort, and passion in poetry.” This intimate connection has shaped his artistic voice and life path, though he admits that the intensity of his initial passion has waned over time.

“Over time, the fire, passion, and drive have undoubtedly died down,” he confessed.

Despite moments of doubt and the temptation to abandon poetry, Nkonyane’s commitment to his craft remains steadfast. “On many occasions, I’ve thought of quitting, but how do you quit your life?” he pondered.

The practical demands of life led him to prioritise survival, choosing a job over his passion.

Nkonyane expressed a poignant concern about the current state of poetry in Eswatini. He observed that the poetry scene has grown quieter, a trend that has been difficult for him to witness.

However, he finds hope and motivation in the efforts of young poets striving to revive the art form. “Seeing the poetry space grow quieter in Eswatini has been painful, but seeing young poets trying to revive the art is inspiring,” he noted.

The upcoming open mic session holds special significance for Nkonyane, as it will be held at Coronation Park, the very place where his own poetic journey began.

He described the invitation to facilitate the event as an exciting opportunity to give back to the community and foster new talent. “I got an invite to facilitate an open mic session at the park where it all started for me as well.

I am excited about this and would love to invite you to be part of this movement and inspire the next generation of young poets,” he said.