Vendaboy Poet promises his OPA performance 'will connect the whole South Africa'
Lutendo Evens Mugagadeli, popularly known as Vendaboy Poet, will perform in the president’s home language of Tshivenda at the Opening of Parliament Address.
Praise singer Lutendo Evens Mugagadeli, also known as Vendaboy Poet, will perform at the the Opening of Parliament Address on 18 July 2024. Picture: Lindsay Dentlinger/EWN
CAPE TOWN - As is customary for the Opening of Parliament Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa will be accompanied into the Cape Town City Hall on Thursday night by an imbongi.
The praise singer's role is not only about cultural performance but to reflect on the socio-economic and political state of the nation.
Lutendo Evens Mugagadeli, popularly known as Vendaboy Poet, rose to prominence when he did an impromptu performance for the president on a domestic flight six years ago.
However, on Thursday night he will have the eyes of the nation on him.
Parliament’s choice of Lutendo Mugagadeli is in line with rotating the reflection of the country’s linguistic diversity.
Vendaboy will perform in the president’s home language of Tshivenda.
"I waited seven years to be given such an opportunity. I praised the president in the plane in 2018, where I've been longing to be in Parliament for the first time. I'm very grateful for this opportunity."
Mugagadeli believes his message will capture the mood of the country.
"My poem may be very spontaneous and will carry spiritual emotion that will connect the whole South Africa and not forgetting that today is Mandela’s birthday."
He said that he was undeterred by the forecasted downpours that could accompany the president's arrival, viewing it as a blessing on the occasion.