Spoken-Word Poets in Cameroon Use Art to Denounce War and Heal Communities

Last Updated May - 05 - 2025, 03:31 PM | Source : Fela News

: In war-torn southwest Cameroon, poets like Boris Taleabong Alemnge (Penboy) use spoken-word poetry to address the horrors of conflict, offering healing and a

In southwest Cameroon, amid ongoing violence between separatists and government forces, spoken-word poetry has emerged as a powerful tool for denouncing the conflict. At a recent performance, Boris Taleabong Alemnge, known as ‘Penboy,’ recited a poem titled "Death," which moved hundreds of audience members. A staged corpse, covered by a sheet, was wheeled onto the stage, symbolizing the harsh reality of death in the war-torn region.

The civil war, which has claimed about 6,500 lives and displaced nearly a million since 2016, has deeply affected the people. Alemnge and other poets use spoken word to address the dangers and tragedies of the conflict, tackling topics like death, trauma, and loss that are often avoided in everyday conversations.

Penboy’s performances resonate with audiences who find both healing and a voice through poetry. As one observer noted, his words have the power to move people, offering solace in a time of widespread suffering. The rising popularity of such events reflects a growing desire to express outrage and seek peace without resorting to violence.