IMbongikazi Yosiba, Ruth Dube: Proof That Firewood Isn’t the Only Thing Burning in the Village

In the heart of Matopo Ntunjambili, where the hills whisper stories of ancestors and the wind carries songs of resilience, a young poetic voice is rising, bold, spiritual and deeply rooted in culture. Her name is Ruth Dube, but to audiences, she is known as Mbongikazi Yosiba Indodakazi Yenkosiyamakhosi, intokazi yaseMatojeni. She is not just a poet; she is a messenger, a cultural custodian and a symbol of rural brilliance rising with grace and purpose.

Born in Tsholotsho and raised in Matopo, Ruth’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Her parents divorced when she was only thirteen, leaving her under the care of her father in a rural setting where she quickly had to grow into a motherly role, caring for siblings, managing household responsibilities, and navigating life with wisdom beyond her years. Despite this, Ruth’s spirit remained unshaken. She developed a deep sense of empathy and inner strength, qualities that now shine through every word she writes and performs.

Currently in her first year at the Zimbabwe Open University, where she is studying for a degree in Early Childhood Development, Ruth began her journey into poetry in 2021. It was during a youth conference in Bulawayo that she first felt the urge to communicate in a way that was uniquely her own. Surrounded by young people from more urban backgrounds, she challenged herself to stand tall and represent her roots. She wanted to show that being from a rural area was not a limitation, but rather a foundation for something remarkable. That was the moment the poet in her was born.

Her inspiration stems from listening to Skyz Metro FM’s Sunday program “Amadramatics,” where local poets perform with rhythm and soul. She was especially moved by the work of acclaimed poet Obert Dube, who showed her that poetry could be a powerful tool for both advocacy and artistic expression. While no one in her family is a poet, Ruth has carved her own path, guided by faith, creativity and an unwavering desire to use her voice for change.

Her poetry, written primarily in isiNdebele and occasionally blended with English, reflects the world she knows and the world she dreams of. She explores themes of resilience, social justice, personal growth, education and womanhood. Each poem is a reflection of lived experience, a blend of personal narrative and community wisdom. Among her most cherished works is “Endure Trials,” a piece that speaks to her own challenges and offers comfort through faith. Another significant piece, “Yesabe Into Encane,” warns against overlooking small issues that can grow into life-altering problems if left unchecked. Other powerful poems include “Ngisize Ngiphethe Kahle,” which laments lost potential; “Qogelela,” an empowering call for women’s financial independence; and “Back to School, Back to Life,” which advocates for lifelong learning regardless of age.

Ruth has performed at various gatherings and events, from church programs to youth awareness campaigns. She has captivated audiences at ZHI Dreams Organisation, Maphisa’s “Say No to Drugs and Substance Abuse” campaign, Fort Usher Primary School’s cultural day, the ZOU Sports Gala and Hillside Teachers’ College. Despite lacking professional mentorship or access to digital platforms due to network and data challenges, Ruth continues to grow, often seeking feedback from audiences to improve her craft. Mr. Ndlovu, the Principal of Assert Primary School and Vocational Training Centre, first encountered Ruth Dube during a performance at Fort Usher Primary School, where he had been invited as a guest. So impressed by her powerful delivery and stage presence, he later extended a personal invitation for her to perform at his school’s graduation ceremony, a gesture that affirmed her growing impact as a young poet and deeply encouraged her artistic journey.

Though she currently performs solo without the support of music, visuals, or a production team, Ruth dreams of collaborating with musicians, filmmakers and other creatives to elevate her art. She hopes to reach audiences of all ages and backgrounds and is especially passionate about inspiring other young women to embrace their talents fearlessly. Her vision is to become not just a performer, but a transformational voice, one that comforts, educates and uplifts.

Ruth Dube is more than a young woman with a gift. She is a living example of how faith, culture and determination can give birth to extraordinary talent, even in the most unexpected places. Her poetry is shaped by her upbringing, strengthened by her spirituality and powered by a love for people. As she continues her journey, she invites the world to listen,not just to her words, but to the heartbeat of rural Zimbabwe that speaks through her voice. For bookings, collaborations, or mentorship opportunities, Ruth can be contacted at ruthdube22@gmail.com or via WhatsApp at +263 789 050 124.

Her story is only beginning, but already she is proving that true greatness is not determined by where you come from, but by how boldly you choose to speak from where you stand.