World Poetry Day, established by UNESCO, is dedicated to recognizing poetry as a profound medium for cultural and linguistic expression, creativity, and communication. This year’s theme, “Sand Dune and Ocean Bed: The Template of Dispersal,” emphasized the intricate dynamics of migration, identity, and cultural exchange, featuring a rare collaboration between Nigerian and Cuban poets.
A Reflection on Dispersal, Migration, and Cultural Exchange
The event was particularly significant as it coincided with two major historical milestones:
- The 30th Anniversary of UNESCO’s Routes of Enslaved Peoples: Resistance, Liberty, and Heritage program, which commemorates the history of transatlantic slavery and its lasting impact.
- The commencement of the United Nations’ Second Decade of African Descendants (2025–2034), an initiative aimed at promoting recognition, justice, and development for people of African descent worldwide.
The convergence of these observances set the stage for an intense exploration of poetry’s role in global cultural discourse, as Nigerian and Cuban poets intricately wove their personal and historical struggles into compelling performances.
Delivering his reflections on the theme, Wole Soyinka highlighted the multiple dimensions of migration, noting that it could be voluntary, forced, or even violent, with lasting consequences for displaced communities.
"Migration takes several forms. Voluntary migration, and violent migration, violent dispersal, with no volition at the beginning, the middle, or the end," Soyinka remarked. "Hence, the global recognition of the great harm that was done to the African continent—it was a hardcore resource center of slavery, of that criminal tendency of humanity to enslave other peoples."
His words underscored the historical injustices of displacement and the enduring scars left by the transatlantic slave trade, themes that resonated deeply with both the poets and the audience.
Providus Bank CEO Encourages a Positive Perspective on Dispersal
While migration and dispersal often carry negative connotations—particularly in the context of forced displacement—Walter Akpani, MD/CEO of Providus Bank, challenged the audience to view dispersal from a broader, more empowering perspective.
"Today, voices converge to remind us that poetry is not just an art; it is a force of nature," Akpani stated. "As we celebrate poetry in our discourse, let us also celebrate the power of dispersal—the way ideas travel, and the way change, though sometimes unsettling, is the bedrock of renewal. Let this be a call to everyone. As the dunes shift and the tides rise and fall, let us remember that dispersal is not disappearance. It is an expansion. It is the spreading of influence. It is the promise that every word, every effort, and every dream has the power to reach distant shores."
His remarks served as a poignant reminder that cultural dispersal, while often rooted in adversity, has also led to the enrichment of global traditions, knowledge exchange, and artistic evolution.
A Fusion of Nigerian and Cuban Voices
The event featured an electrifying lineup of performances, blending spoken word, music, and cross-cultural dialogue.
Nigerian Poets:
- ÀrmGemini – A master of lyrical depth and social commentary.
- Evelyn Osagie– Renowned for her evocative storytelling and feminist themes.
- Kaffe of Life – A dynamic performer blending poetry with contemporary issues.
- Tijaywebster – A rising voice in Nigerian poetry, exploring identity and urban life.
- Chinelo Nwora - A compelling poet whose works traverse personal and collective histories.
Cuban Poets:
- Sinecio Verdecia Díaz – A powerful voice in Latin American poetry.
- Alex Pausides – Celebrated for his contributions to Cuban literary culture.
- Edelmis Anoceto Vega – A poet whose works reflect Cuba’s rich artistic heritage.
- Israel Domínguez – Known for his rhythmic and politically charged verses.
- Emiliano Sardiñas – A wordsmith blending tradition with modern expression.
- Camerata Cortés (Cuba) – A mesmerizing ensemble fusing classical precision with Afro-Cuban rhythms, transporting the audience through a sonic journey of tradition and innovation.
- Kafayat Quadri (Nigeria) – The soulful singer-songwriter enchanted the crowd with her soothing vocals and acoustic melodies, adding a melodic layer to the night’s artistic tapestry.
Each poet brought a unique narrative, blending their linguistic and cultural backgrounds to explore themes of identity, belonging, displacement, and resilience. The synergy between the two nations underscored poetry’s role in fostering international dialogue and understanding.
Musical Performances That Captivated the Audience
Beyond poetry, the event featured electrifying musical performances, reinforcing the celebratory spirit of the occasion.
The Cuban ensemble Camerata Cortés delivered a mesmerizing performance, skillfully merging classical precision with the vibrant rhythms of Cuban tradition. Their music served as a bridge, seamlessly connecting the poetic expressions of both cultures.
Nigerian singer-songwriter Kafayat Quadri also took center stage, enchanting the audience with her soothing vocals and acoustic guitar performance. Her music added a deeply personal touch, complementing the poetic narratives with melodies that evoked emotions of longing, hope, and cultural pride.
A Celebration of the Power of Poetry
The World Poetry Day event at Terra Kulture not only celebrated the beauty of language and expression but also emphasized the enduring relevance of poetry in addressing contemporary issues. Through spoken word, music, and cross-cultural collaboration, the event reinforced the idea that poetry is more than just an art form—it is a tool for education, resistance, and transformation.
As the evening concluded, attendees were left with a profound appreciation for poetry’s ability to connect hearts, preserve history, and inspire change, ensuring that voices from all walks of life continue to resonate across borders and generations.