The Kistrech International Poetry Festival announced that its 2025 edition is taking place from 16th to 23rd October in Kisii, Kenya. This year’s theme, “Performance and Poetry,” explores the vibrant intersections of spoken word, music, rhythm, and dramatic expression in poetic creation.
“We invite poets from across the globe to apply to participate in this immersive celebration of poetic performance. If you are planning to attend, kindly confirm your participation by 21st June 2025.”
The 12th edition of the Kistrech International Poetry Festival, running across Kenya from September 27 to October 4, 2024 had featured a vibrant mix of spoken-word, rap, poetry readings, and musical performances, showcasing talents from local and international poets including Ng’anga Mbugua, Prof. Timothy Wangusa, Susan Kiguli, and many more.
Participation Guidelines:
- A registration fee of KES 2,500 must be paid by 21st June 2025.
- Submit two performative poems aligned with the theme. These may incorporate:
- Musical accompaniment (drums, string instruments, flute)
- Song and voice modulation
- Repetition and rhythm
- Embedded drama or stage elements
- Spoken-word format
- Translations in your mother tongue must accompany each poem.
- Performances in mother tongue are strongly encouraged, with the English version read by you or another person.
- Include your bio and a high-quality photograph with your submission.
- Participants are kindly asked to perform in colorful African attire, in keeping with the cultural spirit of the festival.
Please note: This year, the festival will be held in Kisii, not Nairobi. All international participants should arrange their travel to Kisumu Airport.
The opening ceremony will be held on Friday, 17th October 2025, in the village of Bogiakumu in Kisii, anchoring the event deeply in the cultural heritage of the region.
For registration and submissions, or to request further information, contact:
Dr. Christopher Okemwa
Senior Lecturer, Department of Literature, Kisii University, Kenya
Winner of the Canadian Burt Award for African Literature (2015)
UN Ambassador for Children’s Literature from Africa (2022)
International Consultant/Judge for Nigeria Prize for Literature (2024)
📞 WhatsApp: +254-723868167
🌐 www.okemwa.co.ke
🌐 www.kistrechpoetry.org
📧 festival@kistrechpoetry.org
📧 chris@okemwa.co.ke
