Dear Poets, Ladies and Gentlemen of our beloved verbal art movement,
I reaffirm my dedication, in the present letter, to my Ghanaian verbal art family. Our cherished Slam Poetry has been with us in Ghana for years, and now we all need to help (re)build and elevate this artform which we hold dear. In this regard, we must encourage collaboration as a vehicle for individual and collective growth.
I, hereby, present to those of us who already know [and to all who are yet to know] what Slam Poetry is, and why we need poets like you and I to take up the mantle, for what is coming. A slam is a competitive poetry event where wordsmiths perform Spoken Word Poetry before a live audience. The 5-member jury is selected from the audience. Poetry slams are often considered a ‘break’ from the [past] elitist or rigid image of poetry. The birth of the poetry slam movement is generally attributed to Marc Kelly Smith, an American poet and construction worker, who propelled the art form to global attention in the 1980s. International and local slam stages have gifted the world some of the great voices of our time.
I am proud of our journey in Ghana so far. The fruits of the now and still becoming were sowed at Alliance Française d’Accra in 2009. Below are a few of our first-generation slammers, participants of the first [EhaLaKasa] slam organized in Accra:
Martin Egblewogbe, Crystal Tettey, Jahwi, Fapempong, Mutombo da Poet, DK Osei-Yaw, Josh, Mamacita, Rhyme Sonny
Our movement requires sacrifice, the kind of sacrifice that our first-generation poets and I know well. I conceptualized and led our debut 2009 slam after my own slam experience in Harare, Zimbabwe, the same year. The poets who participated in that slam were great poets who left behind their ego, and any fear of who would win or lose, to slam purely toward the ignition of our poetry scene. New works created for subsequent slams served as training grounds for better-equipped wordsmiths, thus forging a team of indomitable word-warriors.
Dear verbal artists, we need to keep setting performance bars. May I honestly add that your selfishness and mine, feeling we have arrived as poets in our fragile zones of comfort, will not help open spaces of innovation. We need to rise beyond the ‘me, myself and I’ syndrome, beyond the ‘mouth and mic’ mimics, and dive into newer dimensions.
Let us be reminded that poetry in Ghana is highly revered by our contemporaries around the world. I am currently reviewing countless requests from slam poets across the world eager to come to Ghana and slam with our poets. Their desire is to sharpen pens and mics on our magical Ghanaian stages. How, then, is it possible that we have a community of poets who refuse THE CALL of the times?
Slam Poetry is the new face of poetry in Ghana. Slam is the ambassador of exposure and cross-cultural experiences. I firmly believe that Ghana is strategically positioned to host both the Africa Slam and the World Championship in Accra. To this end, we must work harder and collaborate regularly with venues hosting slam and poetry events. The 3rd World Poetry Slam Championship is coming off in Lomé, Togo, and Ghana is represented by Bertha Enam Afi Galley, our current champion. The 1st edition of the World Poetry Slam Championship took place in Belgium in September 2022. Our 2023 national champion, Twita Lite, made Ghana proud at the semi-finals of the World Poetry Slam Championship, hosted in Brazil in October that year. Our 2024 regional slam preliminaries will culminate in the EhaLaKasa National Grand Slam in December. The champion who emerges will ride the new slam wave to Mexico in 2025.
We need to initiate more conversations around slam and poetry. We need to organize more workshops and training programs to facilitate our readiness for what we are expecting. We also need to (re)introduce our movement to schools, universities, and to communities of higher learning. We need to use our medium to tell our own stories, to advocate, and to show young people that there is power in our voice.
I propose that, over the next three years, we invest in our slam poets and in (re)building a more willing and energized community. We need all hands on deck to meet this urgent call. This is the time to open the floodgates of creativity, to walk out of zones of comfort, and to embrace the revival flowing through our verbal art community. Let the conversations begin…
As you read my words—Poets, Ladies and Gentlemen of our beloved verbal art community—may they resonate in you. Give yourself the chance, challenge the poet in you. You will be proud you took a stance, and even prouder that your stance helped uplift the face of poetry in Ghana. Are you ready to make a move as lasting as the word ‘everlasting’? If so, join me in stepping away from the couch and into the slam zone.
Join the verbal art movement,
grab the mic,
mount the stage, and
speak your heart out,
to revive our community with your slam message. As is said in the slam world,
The highly anticipated National Grand Slam 2024 continues with its 2nd Prelims, scheduled for Saturday, July 20th, 2024, at 5:00 PM. The event, organized by Ehalakasa and supported by the Goethe-Institut, will take place at the Tamale Regional Library. This exciting competition is free to attend, making it accessible for all poetry and spoken word enthusiasts.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, July 20th, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Tamale Regional Library
Entry: Free
About Ehalakasa:
SLAMMERS
Ehalakasa, with its motto "It lives in us!", is a dynamic platform promoting poetry and spoken word performances in Ghana. Their events are known for their vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, encouraging creativity and expression among participants and audiences alike.
Why You Should Attend:
Witness Exceptional Talent: The National Grand Slam 2024 showcases some of the best poets and spoken word artists in the country. The 2nd Prelims promise powerful performances, original content, and captivating storytelling.
Cultural Enrichment: Engage with diverse narratives and perspectives that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Ghana. This event is an excellent opportunity to experience the depth and diversity of Ghanaian literature and performance art.
Networking Opportunities: Meet like-minded individuals, artists, and literary enthusiasts. The event provides a platform for networking, collaboration, and community building.
Support Local Art: By attending, you contribute to the growth and sustainability of the local art scene. Your presence helps in promoting and appreciating the talent within the community.
How to Prepare:
Arrive Early: Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot to fully enjoy the performances.
Engage on Social Media: Follow Ehalakasa on social media for updates, performer spotlights, and behind-the-scenes content. Use the event hashtag #EhalakasaGrandSlam2024 to join the conversation and share your experience.
Bring Friends and Family: The event is free and open to all. Bring your friends and family along to enjoy a night of exceptional poetry and spoken word.
Contact Information:
For more information and support, you can reach out at 020 5043 890.
Terms and Conditions Apply
The National Grand Slam 2024 is set to be an unforgettable event, celebrating the power of words and the talent of Ghanaian poets. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of a significant cultural event at the Tamale Regional Library. Mark your calendars for July 20th, and get ready to be inspired!
The National Grand Slam 2024 kicked off with a sensational 1st Prelims on Saturday, June 29th, at the Center for National Culture (CNC) in Koforidua. The event, organized by Ehalakasa in partnership with the Goethe-Institut, showcased a fierce competition among some of Ghana’s most talented poets and spoken word artists. The evening culminated in a thrilling victory for Poetic Dennis, who clinched first place.
Event Highlights:
Date: Saturday, June 29th, 2024
Location: Center for National Culture (CNC), Koforidua
Winners:
First Place: Poetic Dennis
Second Place: Coniah the Poet
Third Place: Kobby Wright
Performers of the Night:
The lineup of poets who graced the stage included:
Kobby Wright
Chief Showman
DREEMZ
Coniah the Poet
MeConcept
Poetic Dennis
Skies Jnr
These talented individuals delivered electrifying performances, captivating the audience with their powerful words and dynamic presence.
Workshop Insights:
Prior to the competition, participants had the unique opportunity to attend a slam poetry workshop. The workshop was led by 7-time slam champion Jewell King-Speaks, with assistance from Yibor Kojo Yibor, also known as Sir Black, co-founder of the Ehalakasa Collective. During the workshop, slammers were taken through various exercises on how to write and develop ideas from the page to the stage. They received valuable tips on performance techniques, which undoubtedly enhanced their presentations during the competition.
Poetic Dennis Shines Bright:
Poetic Dennis emerged as the standout performer of the night, securing first place with his compelling and heartfelt performance. Coniah the Poet followed closely, earning second place, while Kobby Wright took the third spot with his impressive showing.
Audience Engagement and Cultural Celebration:
The event was not only a competition but also a celebration of Ghanaian culture and creativity. The Center for National Culture buzzed with energy as poetry enthusiasts and supporters of the arts gathered to witness the remarkable talent on display. The performances were a testament to the depth and diversity of Ghana’s literary scene.
Ehalakasa: Nurturing Talent and Creativity:
Ehalakasa, with its mantra of "It lives in us!", continues to provide a vital platform for poets and spoken word artists to showcase their skills and connect with audiences. The organization’s collaboration with the Goethe-Institut further underscores its commitment to promoting the arts in Ghana.
Community and Networking:
The event also served as an excellent networking opportunity for artists and literature enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. Attendees were able to engage with the performers, share their thoughts, and build connections.
Looking Forward:
As the National Grand Slam 2024 progresses, anticipation builds for the next rounds. The 2nd Prelims is scheduled for July 20th, 2024, at the Tamale Regional Library. Poetry lovers and supporters of the arts are eagerly looking forward to more stunning performances and inspiring moments.
The National Grand Slam 2024 is set to kick off with its 1st Prelims on Saturday, June 29th, 2024, at 5:00 PM. This premier event, brought to you by Ehalakasa in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut, will be held at the Center for National Culture (CNC) in Koforidua. With free entry, it promises to be an evening of vibrant poetry and spoken word performances.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, June 29th, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Center for National Culture (CNC), Koforidua
Entry: Free
SLAMMERS
About Ehalakasa:
Ehalakasa, known for its slogan "It lives in us!", is a prominent platform dedicated to nurturing and showcasing poetry and spoken word talent in Ghana. The organization is celebrated for creating spaces where artists can freely express their creativity and connect with audiences on a profound level.
Reasons to Attend:
Experience Top Talent: The 1st Prelims of the National Grand Slam 2024 will feature outstanding poets and spoken word artists, presenting powerful performances that highlight their unique voices and perspectives.
Cultural Immersion: Attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Ghanaian culture through the art of spoken word and poetry.
Community Engagement: This event offers a chance to meet fellow literature enthusiasts, artists, and supporters of the arts, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
Support the Arts: By attending the event, you contribute to the promotion and sustainability of the local arts scene, helping to nurture and celebrate homegrown talent.
Tips for Attendees:
Arrive Early: To secure a good seat and ensure you don't miss any part of the event, plan to arrive early as seating is first-come, first-served.
Stay Connected: Follow Ehalakasa on social media for event updates, performer highlights, and engaging content. Use the event hashtag #EhalakasaGrandSlam2024 to share your experience and connect with other attendees.
Invite Others: Share the event with friends and family to enjoy a night of inspiring performances together. The more, the merrier!
Contact Information:
For additional information and support, please contact 020 5043 890.
By Crystal Kwadwa Tettey and Yibor Kojo Yibor (Sir Black)
Accra came alive in the early 2000s with the dawn of the EhaLaKasa movement. Artists and art lovers were invited to relish poetry in oratorial and performance mode à la ghanéenne. Eha means ‘song’ in Ewe. La means ‘sing’ in Ga. Kasa means ‘talk’ in Twi. EhaLaKasa thus represents the intersection of spoken word (poetry) and music. EhaLaKasa is straight talk and street philosophy. We do not say poetry; we say EhaLaKasa.
Nowadays EhaLaKasa has slams, concerts, collaborations, and workshops running throughout Ghana. It is also represented at events worldwide all year long. The movement’s anthologies and publications feature emerging and established Ghanaian poets; EhaLaKasa events and publications are regularly integrated into the curricula and programming of schools in Ghana and beyond.
Spoken word poetry, also referred to as performance poetry, has always been an advocacy mouthpiece. Griots and linguists in many West African communities are repositories of ancient wisdom and, thus, regarded as oracles for educational, spiritual, and political advancement. The Civil Rights Movement in the United States was heavily influenced by spoken word poetry. Poets-turned-politicians such as Léopold Senghor has been pivotal in steering black consciousness worldwide.
Today is the 21st day of the 3rd month of the 2023rd year Anno Domini (AD). The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) celebrates poets and poetry every year on this day. This year AD is also significant on the Accra calendar as the city is named 2023 World Book Capital (WBC) by UNESCO.
The Greenwich Meridian—a geographical reference line that passes through the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, and a key marker of the time measurement standard to which most of the planet pledges allegiance—passes through Tema, a city located 25 kilometers east of Accra. The equator is directly beneath this line. Tema, Ghana’s largest seaport, may be considered the center of the world. This center could be the world’s capital.
The youth of the world’s center are bleeding. There is a scarcity of capital:
Accra is depleting our
financial capital
and robbing us
of
emotional and mental capital
Is the microphone the ●Show-Case● in this whirlwind that propels us into the minds of stakeholders, state institutions, and gatekeepers? Will truth to power be the bubble of redemption required to surmount a time of national and global upheaval? Could there be capital in Accra to lead the world out of despair while being a capital that shows no Show-Case?
In the poet resides the potential for capital. The poet is capital. Poetry is of capital importance
in the capital.
