EHALAKASA is Ghana’s premier slam poetry NGO, where spoken word, music, and culture intersect to inspire, educate, and transform. Rooted in the vibrant traditions of storytelling and performance, EHALAKASA has evolved into a dynamic platform that amplifies voices, empowers communities, and promotes Ghanaian values through the power of poetry.
What Does Ehalakasa Mean?
The name EHALAKASA is a fusion of words from three Ghanaian languages:
– EHA (Song) – Ewe
– LA (Sing) – Ga
– KASA (Talk) – Akan (Twi)
Together, they symbolize the convergence of song, speech, and dialogue, reflecting the universal nature of poetry as an art form that bridges divides. The audience’s response, **“It lives in us!”, affirms EHALAKASA’s deep resonance within the collective spirit.
Our History
EHALAKASA was co-founded in 2007 by Sir Black and musician/poet Nii Lantey, driven by a vision to bring poetry from the page to the stage. It began as a grassroots movement to awaken and celebrate the art of spoken word performance, live music, and poetry in Accra and Ghana. Over the years, EHALAKASA has become a catalyst for addressing contemporary issues while projecting Ghana’s cultural heritage to the world.
Our Mission
To promote slam poetry and spoken word as tools for education, empowerment, and social change, while nurturing Ghanaian values and creativity.
Our Vision
A thriving ecosystem where poetry and performance are celebrated as transformative forces for cultural pride, social impact, and professional growth in Ghana and beyond.
Our Global Achievements
EHALAKASA has proudly represented Ghana and Africa on the global slam poetry stage, including:
– Being the first African collective to compete at the Southern Fried Slam in the United States in 2021.
– Representing Ghana twice at the World Poetry Slam Championship- Brazil, 2023: Ghana reached the semifinals, marking a historic achievement.
– Togo, 2024: Ghana placed 5th, affirming our position as a powerhouse in global slam poetry.
These milestones showcase EHALAKASA’s commitment to amplifying African voices on the international stage.
What We Do
Since its inception, EHALAKASA has spearheaded numerous impactful initiatives, including:
– Ehalakasa Slam: Dynamic competitions showcasing the best-spoken word talents.
– Ehalakasa Talk Party: An open platform blending poetry, music, and conversations
– Ehalakasa International Poetry Day: Annual celebrations of the art form on a global scale.
– Ehalakasa in Senior High Schools: Workshops nurturing young talents.
– Ehalakasa Festival: A celebration of poetry, performance, and culture.
– SheShe Slam: Empowering women’s voices through slam poetry competitions.
– SlamImpulse: A vibrant initiative bringing poetry and performance to new audiences.
– National Grand Slam: The ultimate stage for Ghana’s finest poets to compete and showcase their talents.
These projects address pressing social issues, spark dialogue, and empower voices that resonate with audiences locally and internationally.
Collaborations
EHALAKASA thrives on collaboration, working with esteemed organizations such as:
– World Poetry Slam Organization- Alliance Française Ghana
– Goethe-Institut Ghana
– West Oakland to West Africa Exchange
– Netherlands Embassy
Additionally, we have collaborated with Nubuke Foundation, Writers Project of Ghana, Ghana Association of Writers, Cultural Education Unit of Ghana Education Service, Ghana Culture Forum, Foundation for Contemporary Art – Ghana, and the National Theatre – Ghana to deliver world-class events and initiatives.
Why Ehalakasa?
EHALAKASA embodies the belief that “Everyone has a voice.” By creating spaces for poets, performers, and audiences to connect, it serves as a powerful reminder of the unifying force of words. It’s more than poetry—it’s a movement that inspires change, celebrates diversity, and empowers communities.
Join Us
Become part of the EHALAKASA story. Whether you’re a poet, performer, or supporter of the arts, your voice matters. Together, let’s amplify stories, address critical issues, and celebrate the spirit of slam poetry.