By Wole Adedoyin
The organisers of the GEN Z Kenyan National Poetry Competition are proud to announce the winners of the competition, which aimed to capture the diverse experiences and reflections of Kenyans, as well as international observers, on the recent protests that have resulted in tragic loss of life and widespread incarcerations.
The competition attracted entries from around the world, with a total of eight shortlisted poems selected by renowned Nigerian poet and artist R. B. Pembroke (born Oludare Akinola). Pembroke, a poet, essayist, playwright, painter, and calligrapher, has a distinguished background, holding a BSc in Psychology from Obafemi Awolowo University and an MSc in Peace and Conflict Studies from the University of Ibadan. His work has been featured in numerous literary journals both within Nigeria and internationally.
The winning entries were judged by Tom Block, an esteemed playwright, author of five books, and visual artist with over 20 years of experience.
Tom Block has exhibited his artwork and delivered talks on his ideas across the United States, Canada, Europe, Turkey, and the Middle East. He is also the founder of the International Human Rights Art Festival at Dixon Place in New York City, which was launched in March 2017.
The final winners and notable mentions are as follows:
WINNERS:
1. A Poem For The Good People of Kenya – Daniel Ayotunde Omonitan (Nigeria) – 1st Place
2. Spirit of the Protest – Sumaila Isah Umaisha (Nigeria) – 2nd Place
3. Because We Could Not Bow to Fear – Stanley Moseka Ntiyia (Kenya) – 3rd Place
HONOURABLE MENTIONS:
• Echoes of Desperation: A Nation’s Youth Cry for Justice – William Muthama (Kenya)
• Scourge of Greed – Abdulmumeen Humulkhair Olamipo (Nigeria)
• Shadows of Yesterday – Stephen Gatei Wambui (Kenya)
• The Kenya We Dream Of – Sayyida Ali Shariff Alwy Ali (Kenya)
• The Whispers of a Nation: A Gen Z Cry – Linda Gichohi (Kenya)
The GEN Z National Poetry Competition remains committed to capturing the voices and perspectives of those affected by the recent protests, shedding light on the struggles and hopes of a generation in pursuit of justice.
