Throw weight behind reading and writing culture, poet tells Kenyans

A poet has expressed concern over a fading reading and writing culture.

Paul Ngotho, who is a self-taught poet, said there are fewer young people venturing into writing either as a profession or a pass time.

"The reading and writing culture in the country is not doing well. Now we just have students cramming to pass examinations," said Ngotho, who is professionally a chartered arbitrator and valuation surveyor.

Speaking to students at Lenana High School yesterday while launching his poetry book titled 'Obama, A Mamma' the poet encouraged students to develop reading and writing skills at a young age.

Ngotho also pointed out that instead of handing out gifts such as wine and alcohol during corporate events, people should consider giving books which will endure for generations.

"We need to start appreciating the value of books again," he said, adding that books have more meaning as a present.

Ngotho's poetry book contains 54 poems touching on Africa's struggles, President Barack Obama's homecoming, relationships, musings and scenes covering subjects of hope, corruption, injustice, politics and relationships.

OBAMA POEMS

"Some are about Stella Muka, the University of Nairobi student who died after being crushed by a big stone that fell from a crane, JM Kariuki, Mwana Wa Mberi, a matatu ride and domestic violence while others refer to the Njuguna's and mama Oliech," said Ngotho who started documenting his life experiences from 1979.

The poems that touch on Obama include 'Mwana wa Mberi', which is Africa's celebration of its famous son, 'The Welding', 'Obama, A Mamma' which gives some fatherly advice to Obama and is relevant to African Youth and 'Kwaheri, Lakini'.

'Obama, A Mamma', which originally had the title Obama, 'Not a Man', was conceived in 2013 during Obama's visit to Africa, during which his gay agenda provoked heated debate wherever he went.

Ngotho's favourite poem is 'Beyond Lavington', which he wrote in December 1982 from personal experience after living briefly in Gatina, a slum next to Lavington.