Inako Mateza: The Young Praise Poet Taking the South African Parliament by Storm

Inako Mateza, a 19-year-old praise poet from Gatyane, Eastern Cape, made history yesterday by taking center stage at the South African Parliament. She was selected as the Imbongi, a traditional praise singer, for the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA), where she ushered in President Cyril Ramaphosa with a traditional praise poem.

Mateza’s achievement is a testament to her talent and dedication to preserving South Africa’s rich cultural heritage. As a passionate advocate for cultural heritage and youth empowerment, she has founded the Inako Foundation, which educates young people about their cultures and traditions.

Her impressive resume includes being crowned Indoni Miss Cultural SA 2023/24 and Miss South African Traditional Leaders Awards 2024/25. She has also presented at the South African Music Awards and is a celebrated traditional storyteller.

Mateza expressed her excitement about being chosen as the Imbongi, stating that it will encourage her to continue her work and inspire others to embrace their cultural roots and traditions.