KAPFEST – Kano International Poetry Festival.

Excitement is in the air as Poetic Wednesdays Initiative organizes the first ever Kano International Poetry Festival.

The literary community in Kano and beyond is agog with the planned poetry festival in Kano. The festival, which promises to tell the story of the rich history of Kano through its sights, sounds, culture, and tradition, is set to hold in June 2024.

The festival’s theme was unveiled to be “Kalamai, a fiesta of words and expression”, seeks to celebrate and reiterate the freedom of expression and creativity of the Kano and indeed, northern youth through storytelling. There are two creative writing workshops, a music and poetry night, grand slam poetry competition, panel discussions, poetry exhibition curated by Salim Yunusa and book launch of some of Kano’s most beloved poets which the team is keeping as a surprise – for now. They also intend to unveil a highly reputable headliner for the festival.

Nana Sule, who is the communications officer of Poetic Wednesdays Initiative, says that the guest list of the festival is explosive and will make everyone happy. “All I can say right now is to stay glued to your screens as we intend to blow your minds with our amazing guest list and programs outline.”

The team curating the festival, led by Nasiba Babale and Salim Yunusa, said that despite the saturation of festivals in Northern Nigeria, this is a breath of fresh air in the literary space, bringing forth new innovation and programs on board.

Some of the festival’s partners include KonyaShamsRumi, Marshall Studios, The ABUFEST collective, Afrik Bistro, and Kano Chronicles, among others.