Ghana’s poetry industry lacks structure and recognition — Nana Asaase

Ghanaian poet and writer Nana Asaase says the poetry industry in Ghana lacks structure, recognition and opportunities needed to help poets grow and reach wider audiences.

Speaking on The Career Trail programme aired on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, Nana Asaase said while other creative industries, including music and fashion, were gaining attention, poetry continued to struggle for similar recognition.

He said many poets were working independently in small groups, with limited opportunities to showcase their work, build an audience and establish themselves in the industry.

“There are things for music, there are things for, at least the fashion industry is picking up, but poets don't, poetry is not really getting that kind of attention,” he said.

He added that some poets struggled to find platforms to perform and share their work, even when their primary motivation was not financial gain.

“Somebody wants to perform, not just for the money, right? Somebody wants to get their work out there. Somebody's looking for an avenue to share their work, to get known, but the platforms are not there,” he highlighted.

The poet also raised concerns about the lack of formal recognition for writers in Ghana, particularly the absence of dedicated awards to celebrate their work.

“There's no writer awards in Ghana, no recognition, you know, in Ghana,” he said.

He contrasted the situation with that of Nigeria, where he believes writers receive greater recognition.

As the Vice President of the Poetry Association of Ghana, Nana Asaase said efforts were underway to strengthen the Poetry Association of Ghana and establish a more organised structure for the industry.

“We're still working to build the Poetry Association of Ghana,” he stated.

He believes that creating more opportunities for performance, improving recognition and establishing stronger structures could help Ghanaian poets reach wider audiences and give their work the visibility it deserves.