Despite the scorching weather, the Communications Faculty’s Theatre and Performing Arts Studio at Bayero University, Kano opened its grounds at 10 a.m. on June 12, 2024, for a royal celebration of spoken words. The shining sun did not deter lovers of spoken words and poetry from attending the inaugural Kano International Poetry Festival. The literary event took place from June 11 to 13 and drew a diverse crowd of adults and children eager to experience the magic of poetry and spoken words.
Described as a “great adventure” of spoken words, the literary event featured a stellar lineup of poets and spoken word artists. Oxford-trained Ismail Bala, PhD, poet and medical lab scientist Naseeba Babale, and the famous curator of literary events Sada Ibrahim Malumfashi were among the talented individuals who participated in panel discussions.
The festival, which seemed uncertain from the onset, according to Salim Yunusa, the event curator, attracted not only northern artists but also talents from all over Nigeria. Award-winning poet Liam Osun, literary critic and author Carl Terver, and Rasaq Malik Gbolahan.
Yunusa, added that KAPFEST aimed to celebrate unsung literary talents, particularly from northern Nigeria, and provide a platform for artists to showcase their work.
The festival started with virtual conversations and book chats, with participants joining virtually from the United States, Germany, and other parts of the world.
The inaugural festival featured poetry readings, performances, and conversations with literary giants like Professor Ibrahim Malumfashi, the undisputed father of literary activities in northern Nigeria. The event on its second day ended with honoring the legacy of late Hausa poet and singer Mudi Sipikin in a special with “the Mudi Sipikin Poetry Slam.”
Maryam Yusuf Zubair, opened the day with a powerful poem titled “Parting Gift”. An excerpt from the poem reads:
“He says I wear red lipstick like my mother’s tongue,
And that makes me a dangerous lady.
He says watching me watch the world,
Like it hasn’t left me gasping for air,
Takes him to the edge of the precipice,
Ready to plummet at the slightest twitch of my lips.”The poem’s language and imagery are vivid and reminiscent, painting a picture of a strong and independent woman the use of the color red, often associated with passion and power, adds to the poem’s impact.
Hairat Abdullahi, a renowned Hausa music artist, in an interview, said that festivals like KAPFEST will play a significant role in shaping the northern music industry.
She added, “Initially, I had a different perception of this gathering. I thought it would be a platform where people would ask tough questions that might be difficult to answer. But what I’ve seen here is something entirely different and remarkable.”
Next, talented spoken artists, poets, and musicians took the spotlight, weaving words and melodies that left the audience in awe. “It was a testament to the power of art to unite and uplift us,” Muhammad added.
The festival which kicked off with virtual conversations and book chats and bridged continents and time zones. Participants from the United States, Germany, and far-flung corners of the world came together online, sharing stories and ideas that sparked inspiration and connection ended on evening of Saturday with a performance from Maryam A. Baba, also known as Maryam Sangandali, a renowned Hausa musician. Known for her melodious voice and engaging performance.