The inaugural Jinja International Poetry Festival 2024 runs in Jinja, Uganda from October 24 – 27, 2024. The festival theme is “roots.”
Uganda is one of the most important literary hubs on the African continent. Some of the writers and poets who have made the East African country proud are Okot p’Bitek, Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi, Goretti Kyomuhendo, Christopher Henry Muwanga Barlow, Austin Bukenya, John Ruganda, Mary Karooro Okurut, Susan Kiguli, Hilda Twongyeirwe, Dilman Dila, Beverley Nambozo, Kagayi Ngobi, Nick Twinamatsiko, Doreen Baingana, Ber Anena, Moses Isegawa, Beatrice Lamwaka, Monica Arac de Nyeko, Mildred Barya, and many others.
Another important aspect is meetings of the literary community like the famous 1962 Makerere Conference, the Babishai Niwe Poetry Festival, and the Writivism Festival. The new Jinja International Poetry Festival, founded by poet, editor, scriptwriter, and actor Muganza Keith, is set to join their ranks.
The new literary shindig, with poetry at its centre, will celebrate the “Roots” theme with performances in local languages from seven countries and 10 communities across Uganda. It will also be handing out the following awards;
- Best poetry book/collection
- Best spoken word/poetry show
- Best outstanding social impact
- Lifetime achievement
You can nominate a person who you believe deserves an award by clicking here.
If you are around Jinja, we recommend that you plan around the last weekend of October to enjoy the best in poetry from around Uganda. You can also follow the festival on their Twitter account.
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