Let’s continue nurturing the next generation to become great poets
As an artist, I have been involved in using art for change. I remember last year when a young girl was a victim of cyber bullying, a few of us organised ourselves to speak against the horrific experience that she went through. The poetry event wasn’t broadcasted on TV nor was it world news on BBC. However, words are power.
I always say that, although it might seem that the poetry or art didn’t make an immediate impact, the fact that people saw the need to speak out shows that society is involved in its own affairs. Not only that, but it has the power and means to express itself and address matters that need to be addressed. That shows a sense of responsibility and maturity. Poetry isn’t just about self-expression. It is also a mirror that reflects to the society the state that it is, giving it a chance of reconciliation with itself.
Poetry isn’t just a tool for change. It is also simply for recreation. East Africa has had poets as far as our civilization began. People sitting around in the Baraza on a breezy evening, listening to the wise recite words that seemed to have come from the other world. Poets were respected in a civilised society. They were a voice that was respected. I am saddened to see how poets and artists are treated now.
I am moved to see Tanzanian poets on the rise. Currently, Dar has poetry hubs such as La Poetista, Waka, and Lyrics Lounge, among others. Arusha has Arusha Poetry Club. There is also Maneno in Dar, which is a literary hub. There have also been many others that have been on the scene in the past. Last year, a new poetry award was established in the name of Ebrahim Hussein, a great Tanzanian poet. The award is also accepting entries for this year’s round, till April 30.
I am proud to say that I took the trophy. I can brag about it not because it is my custom to blow my own trumpet, but just as the women at the award giving event bragged – ‘it is a woman who took the title’. At first, I wasn’t sure why all the women in the room were excited about it, but I came to realise that women are taking the lead in art. It is inspiring to see that most of these poetry hubs are led by fierce women. I believe that women have a more intimate understanding of the use and power of words. Women are always on the face of change, if you ask me. Although, most of the time, it is a man who ends up getting the credit.
