Kwame Dawes to be the next Poet Laureate of Jamaica

Kwame Dawes, a highly esteemed poet, editor, critic, and musician, has been named as the next Poet Laureate of Jamaica.

The role of a poet laureate involves composing poems for special events and occasions, officially appointed by a government or conferring institution.

Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Olivia Grange, revealed that Professor Dawes was selected for this honor following a public nomination process and a committee vote conducted by the National Library of Jamaica. His tenure as the Poet Laureate of Jamaica for the years 2024 to 2027 is forthcoming.

She stated, “The Poet Laureate of Jamaica serves a three-year term and is tasked with developing and implementing programs that support Jamaican poetry through reading, writing, and promotion.”

Professor Dawes’ selection is as a result of his significant contributions to Jamaica’s literary landscape. Dawes, who became a Jamaican citizen after growing up in the country, has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Musgrave Silver Medal for Literature in 2004 and the National Honors, Order of Distinction Commander class in 2022.

Born in Ghana in 1962, Kwame Dawes relocated to Kingston, Jamaica, in 1971. His work, which delves into themes like identity, migration, and the human experience, has garnered international acclaim.

Dawes is renowned for his poetry collections such as “Progeny of Air” and “City of Bones: A Testament,” known for their lyrical depth and social commentary. Alongside his 35 poetry books, he has authored fiction and essays, showcasing his diverse literary talents.

In 2009, Dawes received an Emmy Award for his project on HIV/AIDS in Jamaica, combining poetry, photography by Andre Lambertson, and music by Kevin Simmonds.

As the director of the Calabash International Literary Festival in Jamaica and a Professor of English at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Dawes has made significant contributions to the literary world.

The National Library of Jamaica commemorates a decade of the Poet Laureate of Jamaica Program, which has previously honored Professors Mervyn Morris, Lorna Goodison, and Olive Senior.