BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI – Eswatini’s celebrated poetess Dzeli, born Dzelisile Mdluli-Lekgowe, is set to headline the long-awaited return of Poetry in Comfort on 6 December 2025 at the Manzini Library and Community Centre.
Known for her commanding presence and evocative voice, Dzeli has long been a pillar of Eswatini’s literary scene, using her poetry to tackle social issues, inspire communities, and preserve cultural identity. With her work gaining admiration both locally and abroad, her presence on this stage is expected to be a highlight of the cultural calendar.
She will be joined by an impressive line-up of performers, including Anthonimass, Christian Maz, Poet Amandla, Tincane the Poet, and several emerging voices, ensuring a rich blend of established and fresh talent. Together, they promise to deliver an evening that celebrates poetry not only as an art form but also as a force for transformation.
A Fresh Concept
Project Manager Mnqobi Tsabedze explained that this year’s edition comes with a unique twist.
“We are presenting the art space with a poetry-in-comfort outdoor concept,” he said. “This concept aims to provide an exclusive, luxurious experience for poetry lovers and art enthusiasts alike. It’s about creating lasting memories, not just another event.”
The show will feature carefully curated segments, including a Talent Search/Talent Appreciation portion that offers young poets an opportunity to shine. “This segment allows us to crown the best poets of the day,” Tsabedze added. “We believe this will change the poetry industry by giving undiscovered talent the platform it deserves.”
A Classy, Intimate Experience
With the aim of keeping the event sophisticated and personal, organisers are deliberately limiting entry numbers. “We want attendees to enjoy meaningful interactions in a classy setting,” Tsabedze emphasised.
Audience members can expect more than just performances; they will be immersed in an atmosphere where art meets elegance. “Poetry lovers should anticipate a memory they will treasure forever,” Tsabedze said. “We encourage everyone, especially the youth, to buy tickets and support this initiative, which empowers young people while elevating Eswatini’s art scene.”
A Movement, Not Just a Show
More than an event, Poetry in Comfort is billed as a movement aimed at shaping the future of Eswatini’s creative industries. By giving young voices a platform, the initiative hopes to inspire the next generation of artists to embrace poetry as both a passion and a profession.
(Courtesy Pics)
