By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
The Geneva Peace Week 2025 session, “Poetry as Peace Praxis: Narratives of Hope from the Sahel,” showcased the power of poetry to transcend borders and foster global understanding.
Organized by the Sahel Scribes Poetry Club and other partners, this event brought together poets, peacebuilders, and advocates from around the world.
The event was broadcast live from Geneva and streamed across multiple countries, including Nigeria, the UK, the US, and other parts of Africa and the world.
Participants from diverse Nigerian states like Kano, Abeokuta, Taraba, Lagos, Borno, Jigawa, Edo and Kaduna, joined the conversation, sharing their unique perspectives and experiences.
Abdulmalik Yahya (The Punsmith), Founder and President of the Sahel Scribes, welcomed participants and set the tone for the event.
Sajuda Mahmud Isa’s multilingual poem, blending Hausa and English, was a highlight of the event. Her words captured the Sahel’s resilience and determination. Two poetry exhibitions, “Alafia” by Adesewa Alagbala and “Canvas of Freedom”by Lanre Sonde, further showcased poetry’s ability to convey powerful messages. While “Alafia” focused on peace and femininity, “Canvas of Freedom” explored liberation and resistance.
The panel discussion emphasized the importance of amplifying women’s voices and fostering solidarity across borders.
Godson Osarenren said that “poetry is used as a tool of solace in the Sahel. Writing in local dialects carries a quiet rebellion against erasure.” Also, Safiya Alkali Ajikolo stressed the need for inclusive decision-making processes. She said, “Young people should be brought to the decision table. Sharing poems of hope allows others to understand their views and affirm solidarity.”
Participants engaged in breakout sessions, crafting poems around themes of peace, justice, tolerance, and coexistence. The resulting poems will be compiled into an anthology, giving participants due credit for their contributions.
The event ended with reflections on the power of art to bridge silence. Godson Osarenren said, “It is not just about visibility. It is about vitality.” Nigeria stood proudly among nations, proving that peace can indeed begin with a poem.
