Taifa Leo, a Kenyan newspaper, has published a collection of Swahili poems submitted by readers from various regions. The poems address themes such as inheritance, aging, illness, politics, and everyday life.
In the Malumbano ya Ushairi section, Taifa Leo has published several poems written by ordinary people from regions such as Busia, Malindi, Bungoma, Mombasa, Kilifi, Migori, and Kabarnet. The first poem, 'Chungwa ni la nani?' by Dominiano Adiba Onyango from Budalangi, Busia, uses the metaphor of an orange to address an inheritance dispute within a family, referencing names like Odinga, Oburu Oginga, and Winnie. The author questions, 'Hilo chungwa ni la nani, mbona mwaling’ang’ania?' to highlight sharing conflicts over property.
Other poems include 'Na bado' by Muhammad Omar Chetezo from Malindi, describing the hardships of aging and physical weakness; 'Mama utapona' by Ludovick Mbogholi from Ngariba, encouraging a sick mother through prayers; and 'Amka mama' by Allan Chenge from Kachiang', Bungoma, calling on Congo to awaken against suffering. There is also 'Bungoma hoyee!' by Kaka Kule from Lukhuna-Tongaren, celebrating the election of teachers' leaders, praising Luketelo, Walela, Busolo, Fei Wafula, Linda Wekesa, and Anodi Nyongesa.
Further poems are 'Hakitoshi' by Ustadh Muhammad Abdallah from Malindi, lamenting poverty; 'Siutangui udhu' by Hamza Ar-Riyam from Busaramo, Mombasa, repenting sins; 'Hiyo mimba si yangu!' by Onesmus Katana from Msikivu, Kilifi, denying paternity; 'Bustani ya mahusiano' by Juma Okal from Migori, advising on relationships; and 'Hujafeli mtihani' by Christopher Musa Kalunda from Kabarnet, motivating a student who failed exams that it is not the end of life.
This collection highlights the role of Swahili poetry in expressing Kenyan societal views, without adding further political or cultural details beyond what is written.
