An award winning poet Albert Nyathi has encouraged artists to help communities fight gender
based violence.
In an interview during the recently held Shangano Festival, the renowned poet said artists can be
agents of positive change.
He said cases of gender based violence have been rampant in the community and it is time that
artists used their creative minds and come together and preach the gospel of ending gender based
violence in communities.
“Artisst can be the agents of change in various way. They can do it through music, poetry,
literature and even fine arts,” said Nyathi
Weighing in on recent cases in which young girls have been abused resulting in them falling
pregnant, the renowned poet said: “Someone who sleeps with an 8-year-old should have his head
examined. Artists can now play their part by using their creative minds and give a strong
message to perpetrators and say this is wrong.”
Of late, Matebeleland North has been trending with cases linked to gender based violence and
rape.
“It is high time we as artists change the narrative of gender based violence in the province. One
can write a speech and do it, but remember art is not a speech, art is the work of creation that
make people interested and fascinated.
Taking cognizance of the area that he was in and knowing the constant battles between humans
and wildlife, Nyathi said artists too can play a part in controlling and ending this menace.
“We should be the ones sending awareness campaigns to communities when it comes to human-
wildlife issues,” said Nyathi.
The 16 edition of the Shangano Arts festival attracted a number of artist. During the festival, the
art icon encouraged artists to take their art businesses seriously if they were to reap more
rewards. Artist need to bring something that is fresh and refreshing, it’s an expression of your
emotion .There is no room for mediocrity’’ he said.