BULAWAYO - Promising youthful author, Njabulo Moyo will launch an anthology of 35 poems titled African Sketches during the Intwasa Arts Festival set for this month in Bulawayo.

African Sketches was edited by renowned author and playwright Christopher Mlalazi who is currently on residency in the United States of America.

Moyo, 25, told the Daily News that his new literary work which will be officially launched on September 19 at the National Gallery in Bulawayo was a reflection of modern motivational African literature.

“My poetry reflects modern African psyche. It actually drifts away from the tradition of protest and praise poetry thereby bringing a fresh elegance in motivational poetry,” said Moyo.

“It actually takes a look at contemporary social, political and economic affairs.

The book encourages people to take the lead and see opportunities in challenges.

“I use poetry as a motivational tool to encourage and provoke feelings. I strive to bring a unique style that is mainly inspired by contemporary affairs,” Moyo said.

The book’s editor Mlalazi aptly puts it: “The poems are sketches of the modern African psyche.”

Mgcini Nyoni a poet cum playwright who had the opportunity to review the book says: “African Sketches is a social and political commentary. The language is highly accessible as the modern poet tries to shrug off the centuries old stereotype of poetry: That it is difficult and therefore not for the ordinary man on the street. African Sketches is a good first effort from Njabulo and we look forward to more of his work.”

Bulawayo-based renowned author John Eppel puts it in his preview of Moyo’s debut book: “He is one of a group of talented young poets from Bulawayo who dare to be noticed. We, the older generation of writers, are very proud of them,” he commented.

Born and bred in Bulawayo, Moyo is not new in the arts industry.

In 2010, he featured as a performing poet in the Action Youth’s Listen to youth project.

He has performed at Intwasa Arts Festival since 2009 under the spoken word genre supported by British Council’s Echoes of Young Voices.

In the 2006, the artist was a finalist during the High School competition called Power in the Voice.

His passion, knowledge and experience have seen the inspirational young poet representing the country in Sweden, Denmark and Lebanon.