Nana Asaase calls for formal structure in Ghana’s poetry industry

Nana Asaase, a prominent Ghanaian poet and Vice President of the Poetry Association of Ghana, has highlighted the urgent need for formal structure and institutional recognition within the country's literary sector. Speaking on Joy Learning TV’s "The Career Trail," Asaase observed that while other creative fields such as music and fashion have gained significant attention and investment, poetry remains largely overlooked. He noted a critical scarcity of performance platforms and a lack of dedicated awards for writers in Ghana, contrasting the local environment with Nigeria, where writers often receive greater professional validation.

Reflecting on his personal journey, Asaase recounted the significant challenges he faced after transitioning from a stable career in public relations to full-time poetry. He revealed that his commitment to addressing the cultural gap in Ghana’s arts space initially led to severe financial hardship, with his bank balance once dropping to just 50 pesewas. Despite facing dismissive social attitudes and remarks that poets are relegated to "selling books from car boots," he persevered for 12 years. His dedication eventually led to professional breakthroughs, including the rare distinction of performing for four Ghanaian presidents, including the current president, John Mahama.

Asaase encouraged young creatives to look beyond traditional stage performances and explore the broader commercial potential of the craft. He identified untapped opportunities for poets in diverse fields such as marketing, songwriting, academic research, and content creation. While acknowledging the importance of financial viability, he advised emerging talents to prioritise the refinement of their skills over quick monetary gains, urging patience and discipline as they navigate the evolving creative landscape.

To address the industry's structural deficits, Asaase confirmed ongoing efforts to strengthen the Poetry Association of Ghana to improve visibility and conditions for practitioners. He also remains committed to nurturing the next generation of poets through initiatives like the Sankofa Sessions and announced the upcoming release of his first book later this year. These efforts aim to transform poetry from a perceived hobby into a sustainable and respected professional career path in Ghana.