Mottanni: A Voice of Change in Cameroon
Profile Overview
Mottanni, born Tanni Desmond Awa on November 9, 1991, in Bamenda, Cameroon, is a celebrated poet and spoken word artist making significant strides in the realm of social justice through his powerful performances. Known for his evocative style and attention-commanding voice, Mottanni artfully blends emotions with rhythm, music, and storytelling, crafting pieces that resonate deeply with audiences.
Impactful Work
Mottanni is set to embark on an explosive national tour featuring his latest spoken word EP, "Bruises," which addresses the pressing issue of gender-based violence (GBV). Running from August 30 to November 30 2025, the tour will cover various towns in Cameroon, including Bertoua, Bandjoun, Ngaoundere, and his hometown, Bamenda. This project aims to raise awareness about GBV and foster dialogue within communities, providing a platform for victims, survivors, and advocates to share their stories.
The "Bruises" project consists of five poignant poems that explore:
1. The origin of gender-based violence.
2. Comfort for survivors.
3. Perspectives from perpetrators.
4. Conversations among stakeholders.
5. Collaborative expressions from poets, culminating in a call for love and peace.
Artistic Journey
Mottanni's journey into poetry began at a young age, using it as a medium for self-expression and social commentary. He has drawn inspiration from literary giants like Linus T. Asong ,Gibran and a host of others. developing a unique voice that resonates with diverse audiences. His performances have graced prestigious events such as the Black Swagger Poetry Slam and the Word Splash National Poetry Festival.
Awards and Recognition
His dedication and talent have earned him numerous accolades, including:
- Best Punctual Poet 2020 (Black Swagger Poetry Slam)
- Best Male Spoken Word Poet 2020 (Black Swagger)
- Best Overall Spoken Word Artist 2020 (Black Swagger)
- Best Spoken Word Poet 2019 (BAVENTI Awards)
- Special Awards for Professionalizing Poetry in Bamenda (NBACA 2020)
Mottanni continues to push artistic boundaries, reminding us of the transformative power of words.
Social Media and Contact
To follow Mottanni's journey or to book him for events, connect through his social media:
Mottanni is not just a poet; he is a beacon of hope and empowerment in Cameroon, inspiring many to rise above their circumstances through the art of spoken word.