U.S. Embassy Spearheads Poetry Book Launch

May 25, 2012

Some of the 25 finalists of the poetry contes

May 25, 2012 was a day of reckoning to most Malawian writers as the U.S. Embassy launched a Poetry anthology entitled Generation Hope at Chancellor College. The book aims to encourage young Malawians to use their creative abilities and contribute to the writing scene in Malawi. It is a collection of the top 25 poems from the 2011 U.S. Embassy-sponsored youth poetry contest.

Public Affairs Officer Benjamin Canavan highlighted that the book launch is in line with President Obama’s initiative of engaging with young African leaders, “poetry provides such a good platform of dialogue where young Malawians can talk about current challenges and opportunities.” The Malawi Writers Union President, Mr. Sambalikagwa Mvona, guest of honor at the event, hailed the U.S. Embassy for the anthology as it is to revive the reading and writing culture among the youth.

The event attracted renowned writers and poets including Chancellor College principal, Prof. Chris Kamlongera, Mr. Willie Zingani, and Qabaniso Malewezi, students from Polytechnic, Chancellor College and secondary schools around Zomba.  The 150 + audience was entertained by recitals in English and Chichewa, dances, games and music.
The book is the first collection of young budding writers in Malawi.