A unique event is being organized by the Embassy of Switzerland to Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia in collaboration with the French Embassy to Zimbabwe. It will take place on March 20 at Alliance Française de Bulawayo.

Le Printemps des Poètes will be headlined by four poets from two continents: Africa and Europe.

Sox the Poet and Frank Chirisa represent Zimbabwe, while Vincent Kucholl and Vincent Veillon come from Switzerland. Kucholl and Veillon are also producers and hosts of 52 Minutes, one of the most listened-to radio programs on Switzerland’s Radio Télévision Suisse (RTS). The program is well known for reviewing the latest news in Switzerland and global events. The duo has collaborated for at least 15 years on both radio and television.

Frank Chirisa, a 24-year-old stand-up comedian from Zimbabwe’s City of Kings and Queens (Bulawayo), was notably crowned Outstanding Comedian at the 2023 Matabeleland Awards. Recently, he hosted a Southern African tour across four major cities: Harare, Port Elizabeth, Lusaka, and Gaborone.

Chirisa titled his tour Funny Stories That Heal. His counterpart, Sox the Poet, is a radio host on Skyz Metro FM, one of Zimbabwe’s most popular radio stations. He prominently hosts a show focused on men’s emotional and mental wellness. Sox has been nominated for Zimbabwe’s biggest provincial awards, the Bulawayo Arts Awards, and has also been listed among the 40 Under 30 Gumiguru Influential Leaders.

In an exclusive chat with My Afrika Magazine, Sox said the upcoming show promises to be outstanding, with all preparations in place. He also encouraged people to attend in large numbers and enjoy the diverse entertainment lineup.

“The Words Matter shows are always unique, and this month’s edition is no exception. Coinciding with the French holiday Printemps des Poètes (Spring of Poets), you can expect an exciting celebration of diversity.”

“This month’s show features riveting and socially conscious performances from WeCre8te Afrika, including myself; soulful melodies from our all-weather partners, Emmar The Violinist, Celine Sky, and Reilo Viekk; and laughter and comedy courtesy of Frank Chirisa. So get ready for a family-friendly night of words, melodies, and community,” he said.