The International Human Rights Art Movement (IHRAM), organiser of the African Human Rights Poetry Competition, has announced the selection of three distinguished judges for the recently concluded competition.
Through the power of poetry, the contest seeks to amplify voices advocating for human rights and social change, providing a platform for writers passionate about freedom, justice, and equality.
In a statement released to the press, Wole Adedoyin, Coordinator of the African Human Rights Poetry Competition, disclosed that the competition received over 300 outstanding entries from more than 25 countries across Africa and beyond. The overwhelming response stressed the global resonance of human rights issues and the role of poetry in fostering dialogue and transformation.
To evaluate and select the most compelling entries, IHRAM has appointed three renowned judges with extensive expertise in poetry, literature, and human rights advocacy. The panel includes Khalid Imam, Nkwetatang Sampson Nguekie, and Tom Block, each bringing a wealth of experience and artistic insight to the competition.
Khalid Imam, a celebrated poet, playwright, and art administrator, has made significant contributions to the literary world. As President of D-E-E-D-S Dialogue Debate International and Chairman of the Poetry Renaissance Trust, he has championed numerous literary initiatives, including the Nigeria Poetry Festival and All Poets Network International.
A bilingual writer, Imam has published widely across multiple continents and co-edited notable anthologies such as Corona Blues and Tulu: A Multilingual Anthology of Northern Nigerian New Writings. His judging experience includes prestigious contests like the BBC Hausa Hikayata Short Story Competition and the Dr. Wale Okediran @70 Poetry Competition.
Nkwetatang Sampson Nguekie, a visionary writer from Cameroon, is hailed as a modern-day romantic poet with ambitions to become one of history’s greatest literary figures. Educated at the University of Yaoundé I, he has authored two novels, From Village to Town and Hard Way to Fortune, and pioneered a new literary genre called “Repsy.” His works have earned accolades, including the 2013 Eko Prize for Nonfiction and the 2022 Lantern Prize for Literature. A prolific editor and mentor, Nguekie leads multiple literary and civil society organizations, including the Cameroonian and Nigerian Writers League (CNWL).
Tom Block, an accomplished playwright, author, and visual artist, brings decades of artistic and activist experience to the judging panel. His plays have been staged at prominent venues such as the Ensemble Studio Theater and HERE Arts Center. As the founder of the International Human Rights Art Festival and the Amnesty International Human Rights Art Festival, Block has been a driving force in merging art and activism. His exhibitions and lectures have spanned the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in creative advocacy.
The longlist of 50 outstanding entries will be announced in mid-July 2025, followed by the unveiling of 10 shortlist. The competition highlights poetry’s unique ability to articulate human rights struggles, from gender equality and democracy to social justice and freedom of expression.
IHRAM remains committed to fostering artistic expression as a tool for social change, providing a global stage for voices that challenge oppression and inspire hope. The African Human Rights Poetry Competition exemplifies this mission, celebrating the transformative power of words in the fight for a just world.
