When Setswana Hit the Algorithm

Kago Africa The Poet spoke and the internet leaned in. With viral poems, she proves that authenticity still travels faster than trends Some content begs for likes. Kago Africa The Poet simply arrives.

Her viral Setswana poem, “Tlherra mfereye,” didn’t explode because it was engineered for TikTok, it moved because it sounded like home. Untranslated. Unapologetic.

Born Kago Kgosimore,the poet is less interested in numbers than resonance. And resonance, right now, is winning. Kago’s love affair with poetry started long before algorithms existed.

[paywall]

“My journey with poetry began during my primary school years… that moment stayed with me,” she told Time Out, recalling watching a friend rehearse a poem for June 16 commemorations. “Over time, poetry became the only way I truly express myself.” Contrary to the idea that poetry is niche or fading, Kago insists the opposite is true. “The poetry space in Botswana is actually quite impressive at the moment… the diversity and dedication within the community are encouraging to see.” The audience is there.

The voices are multiplying. The forms are evolving. Kago’s poems don’t march, they mirror.Writing in Setswana isn’t framed as protest, but honesty. “I see it primarily as telling the truth, my truth.”

[/paywall]