mwafrika.com - WAPI Gets Spiritual

WAPI Gets Spiritual

Mbona tuna pigana makofi na kushootiana na maguns/ When maMPs wanakunywa chai na Koffi Annan?

Talk of a question well asked in rhyme, in time and with without disguise. Then wait for no ordinary answer. And who said it need be answered anyway? At times, the most understood messages are hidden in simile and metaphors.

Welcome to WAPI, where art and poetry collide to convey voices of the unheard, the forgotten and sometimes, the ignored.

The venue was the British Council and a host of art lovers, in words and pictures, had congregated to listen and see art expressed in all its forms. The theme for this particular edition was Spiritual Minded, reverberating spirituality in all artwork on display. Wrapped in several chapters, there was Art on display, Spoken Word, a Fashion Runaway and Open Mic sessions.

Hosted by Jefro, Open Mic session was deeply lyrical. Flow was the name of the game as rhymesters spit flawlessly, much to the delight of their admirers. From Wordsmith to Advocate, Holy Dave to Dida, Specifyed to Mr. Dee, delivery was quick, potent and straight to the point. Blaqhastla, Juliani, Mission Driven and Kamlesh were also here, but unlike a cobra injecting venom into its prey, they were delivering life to a congregation hungry for spiritual intelligence. Also present were Rachel, X-po, Pope, Number 8 and Joey.

The event was great, and not even a power black out managed to darken the already ecstatic mood. One thing was clear; each wordsmith had a message carved out to seek to answer a question, ask a question or talk about a prevailing situation. While most addressed Godliness, others threw jabs at the political system and some even talked about love.

Number 8 was on point when he admonished the others
‘You are not just MCS but priests’

Check out the event pics below.