Poets call for government support to boost the industry

Dar es Salaam. As the world marks World Poetry Day today, 21 March, poets in Tanzania—both established and emerging—are urging the government to provide financial and structural support for industry flourishment.

They argue that poetry does not receive the same level of investment and recognition as other creative sectors.

Speaking to The Citizen's sister magazine, Mwananchi Scoop, industry players emphasised the need for government-backed financial assistance to elevate the sector and make poetry a viable career.

"Many poets who have gained recognition have done so through personal struggles, without any support from authorities," said Bongo Poetry founder, Mr Paul Poet.

"There is no financial motivation or strategic investment in poetry which discourages writers and performers from taking it seriously," he added.

Mr Poet also highlighted a mentorship gap, noting that established poets rarely support upcoming talent.

"Unlike other creative fields where talent scouting is encouraged, poetry remains an individual struggle. There is a level of selfishness among us," he observed.

Education and competitions

Similarly, rising poet Just Beka suggested that the government introduce poetry education in schools and organise national competitions to nurture young talent.

"Competitions at different levels, from primary school to university, would boost awareness and appreciation for poetry, just as we see in countries like the United States," he said.

Renowned poet, Ms Diana Laizer, known for her performances at The Punchline and Bongo Poetry, echoed the call for financial backing from the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Sports.

"For poetry to grow, financial support is crucial. The ministry could provide grants to poets to help them publish and distribute their work. Additionally, national poetry awards, such as the ‘Tanzania Poetry Awards’ with cash prizes, would create more enthusiasm and competition in the industry," suggested Ms Diana.

She further proposed that the government fund poetry festivals such as the Bagamoyo Arts Festival and the Mwalimu Nyerere Literary Festival, while ensuring poetry collections are well-represented in national libraries.

Updating school books and national integration

Veteran poet, Mr Nasri Kione, popularly known as Mr Romantic, stressed the importance of updating school poetry books and integrating poetry into national celebrations.

"The government should not only provide policies but also attract financial investment in poetry platforms. Sponsorships could help poets print manuscripts and support event organisers. Poetry should also be included in government celebrations—not just Kiswahili Day but other national events as well," he said.

He further suggested that school poetry books be regularly updated to feature contemporary poets and reflect current social issues.

Expanding poetry platforms

Another poet, Ms Leylat Said, called for more poetry platforms across Tanzania, noting that most existing ones are concentrated in Dar es Salaam.

"We have fewer than seven poetry platforms in Dar es Salaam, and there are hardly any in other regions," she lamented.

She called on the government, in collaboration with private companies, to establish more poetry platforms nationwide, providing poets across Tanzania with greater opportunities to showcase their talent.

A growing call for recognition

The poets' appeal coincides with World Poetry Day, a global celebration of poetry’s role in preserving cultural identity, fostering creativity, and inspiring change.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) established this day to support linguistic diversity and honour poets worldwide.

Their call also follows the increased government recognition of other creative sectors, such as comedy.

The first-ever Tanzania Comedy Awards, held on 22 February 2025 at The SuperDome Masaki, had President Samia Suluhu Hassan as the guest of honour.

Now, poets hope for similar recognition, allowing them to flourish just as comedians and musicians have in recent years.