Kamow the mouth artist paints his way into the Premier’s heart

In the hot afternoon of 31 January 2025, Premier, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba along with some of her Members of the Executive Council including Ms. Dieketseng Mashego of Health paid a special visit to Kamogelo Mokoena, a sensational visual artist residing in the village of Ga-Maake.

This follows a few days after the young man brought social media to a standstill when he went viral for painting a portrait of the Premier using his mouth. Kamo was born with a quadriplegic condition where all four of his limbs are paralysed, leading to him being unable to move or feel his legs and arms.

However, the 20-year-old did not let his physical impairment stop him from chasing his dreams and fulfilling his passion for the arts. This is why he found a unique way to express himself through art and shared it with the rest of the world to see. Kamow the Mouth Artist is now a developing brand that not only instills hope to the disability community but creates a society that is more inclusive and accountable.

He welcomed the courtesy visit from esteemed guests and said, “I am thankful for the Premier and her guests for taking their time to come see me. This makes me feel happy and special, I do not even have enough words to express how I feel.”

Someone who had a mouthful of words, however, was the Premier, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba when she emphasised the importance of embracing and uplifting persons living with disabilities, for they are not defined by their physical competencies, but their passion, perseverance, and belief in their potential.

“We must cultivate an environment where every person, regardless of their physical abilities, feels empowered to contribute to society,” urged Dr. Ramathuba. She also mentioned that in support with the Department of Sports, Art, and Culture, they are committed to creating opportunities for artists because they are also viable economic drivers.

The Provincial Government concluded the special visit by gifting a few items that Kamo the Mouth Artist will need including a new electronic wheelchair for smooth mobility amongst many others. PM