Abuja International Poetry Festival: A Focus on African culture in the digital age
The inaugural Abuja International Poetry Festival lit up Nigeria’s capital last week, bringing poets, intellectuals, and cultural enthusiasts together for three days of vibrant exchange. Held across multiple venues, the festival offered a dynamic exploration of the theme “Afro-Futurism and Digital Culture,” delving into what it means to be an African poet in the modern world.
Organized by Nasara Creative in collaboration with various partners, the festival showcased the intersection of art and technology. According to founder Bash Amuneni, the event aimed to connect African culture, knowledge, and experiences with the possibilities of the future. “This is Africa—where do you want to go, and how can we use AI to make that journey better?” Amuneni said, capturing the festival’s forward-looking vision.
Festival director Orewa Olujimi expanded on the theme, describing Afro-Futurism as a lens through which the trajectory of African art is questioned. “What is the future of our art? What will poetry look like in a few years, especially in the context of digital technology and advancement?” she asked.
The festival featured a mix of virtual and in-person sessions, bringing together established and emerging poets from across the globe. Activities ranged from poetry readings and masterclasses to a traditional poetry concert and a grand Poetry Slam to close the event.
For attendees like poet Chi Martins Azubuike, the festival provided a thought-provoking look at how technology can be harnessed to preserve and celebrate African languages. Poet Soonest Nathaniel echoed this sentiment, praising digital technology for expanding opportunities for African writers. “There are so many publishing avenues now available in the digital space. People who wouldn’t ordinarily publish can now do so much more from the continent,” Nathaniel remarked.
The Abuja International Poetry Festival not only celebrated the richness of African poetry but also offered a glimpse into its evolving future. It was a platform for learning, connection, and inspiration, leaving attendees eager to explore the possibilities that technology and creativity can unlock for the continent’s art and culture.
What does the future of African art and poetry mean to you? Share your thoughts and join the conversation on how technology can shape creative expression in Africa.
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