Somalia: The Nation of Poets

On the easternmost edge of Africa lies Somalia, a country often dubbed the “Nation of Poets” or the “Nation of Bards.” This evocative label resonates deeply with Somalis, who possess an intrinsic flair for poetry and a profound respect for storytelling. For as long as anyone can remember, poetry has been the lifeblood of Somali culture. Its roots trace back to the 18th century with revered meditations like those of Sheekh Cali Cabduraxmaan. But what of today? Is this timeless tradition still alive?

The Somali Storytellers

In what seems a natural evolution of their poetic legacy, a fresh wave of young poets, known as The Somali Storytellers, have emerged. Their mission? To connect with the youth of Somalia—the architects of tomorrow. Through innovative works that blend rich history with modern-day narratives, they strive to keep the culture vibrant and relevant. How do they do this, you ask?

Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), a Digital Storytelling Bootcamp was launched. This initiative took 20 young Somalis under its wing, equipping them with skills to share poignant stories across the globe using everyday tech—think smartphones and laptops. Participants later ventured into Mogadishu, capturing the heartbeat of their community through digital creations.

Zahra Abdihagi: A Voice Rising

Among these aspiring storytellers emerged Zahra Abdihagi, standing out amidst a field of 400 hopefuls. Her credentials? Remarkable achievements in writing and a fervent drive for social transformation. Zahra’s journey took root in Canada, where she completed her high school education. Even before her graduation, she had already published a collection of short stories. Upon her return to Somalia, Zahra’s poetic prowess was recognized when she placed third in an international poetry competition conducted in the Somali language.

Zahra, with her cohort, delved into a rigorous six-week storytelling course, mastering the art of digital narration. Today, she facilitates workshops for 30 young Somali enthusiasts, inspiring them to weave fantastic tales. When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the world, Zahra was instrumental in encouraging youth to verbalize their thoughts and disseminate critical health messages. But does she ever pause to wonder about the societal impact of her words?

Digital Shelter and the Without Fear Project

In 2020, the Digital Shelter initiative invited Somali women to share their experiences, birthing the “Without Fear” campaign. On International Women’s Day in 2021, Zahra’s narrative—crafted for this movement—resonated across social media platforms, touching lives of many in Somalia and beyond. Her poem addressed the pervasive online harassment women face daily: from account hacks to malicious bullying. Such storytelling became a powerful tool of resistance. As we consider Zahra’s work, we might ask: what other forms of expression lie untapped in Somali women?

“I see a great future for us. Lots of young people are already asking how they can become storytellers themselves.” — Zahra Abdihagi

The Somali Storytellers aim to establish their own company. As interest grows, so does the support, with many donating to their cause. But what of the future?

The Future of Poetry in Somalia

The horizon looks promising as numerous young Somali storytellers branch into filmmaking. Their recent digital anthology, “Me and My Somalia,” has been a testament to their creative spirit, portraying the resilience and ingenuity of Somali communities. The future they envision includes a media landscape where storytelling transcends barriers, offering an authentic window into Somali life and propelling positive communal evolution. Yet, this raises a question: will the world listen closely to these narrations?

Each part of this blossoming story echoes Somalia’s enduring legacy as a nation of poets and the unyielding voice of its people.