International Writers Association celebrates Kwame Dawes as Jamaica’s new poet laureate

The International Writers Association (IWA) has congratulated Professor Kwame Dawes on his selection as the new Poet Laureate of Jamaica.

This news follows the announcement by Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia “Babsy” Grange, who declared Professor Dawes the most fitting candidate after a public nomination process and subsequent vote by a seven-member committee. Professor Dawes’ investiture ceremony is forthcoming, formally commencing his tenure as Jamaica’s Poet Laureate from 2024 to 2027.

In a statement released by the Acting President of the Association, Wole Adedoyin, the IWA commended the decision of Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia “Babsy” Grange, in selecting Professor Dawes for this esteemed position. Minister Grange highlighted Dawes’ international acclaim and extensive body of work as defining factors in his selection.

As Poet Laureate, Professor Dawes will hold a three-year term tasked with developing and implementing programs that bolster the reading, writing, and overall appreciation of Jamaican poetry.

Professor Dawes, a Ghanaian-born poet, editor, critic, and musician, has garnered international acclaim for his works. His poems delve into themes of identity, migration, and the universal human experience. His achievements span various genres, with poetry collections like “Progeny of Air” and “City of Bones: A Testament” lauded for their rich lyricism and insightful social commentary. Professor Dawes boasts an impressive bibliography of 35 poetry collections alongside numerous works of fiction and essays.

Professor Dawes’ contributions extend beyond his own literary pursuits. He co-founded the renowned Calabash International Literary Festival, a biennial event on Jamaica’s south coast that has become a global literary phenomenon, alongside novelist Colin Channer and producer Justine Henzell.

This appointment marks the 10th anniversary of the Poet Laureate of Jamaica Programme established by the National Library of Jamaica (NLJ) in post-independence Jamaica. Professor Dawes joins a distinguished company of past laureates, including Professors Mervyn Morris, Lorna Goodison, and Olive Senior.

As Professor Kwame Dawes assumes his role as the Poet Laureate of Jamaica for the years 2024 to 2027, the International Writers Association stands in solidarity, celebrating his achievements and eagerly anticipating the enriching contributions he will make to the literary landscape of Jamaica and beyond.