Palma wa Vasho: A brilliant Naivasha poet blending poetry with activism
Palma wa Vasho showcasing his poetry during one of his shows.
With the emergence of activism poetry, creatives in Nakuru are using art to protest government corruption, violation of human rights, and disregard for the country’s youth.
Among the creatives is Geoffrey Mwangi known by the stage name Palma wa Vasho.
He has been using his art to speak of injustices in most informal settlements, particularly in Kabati, Naivasha where he grew up.
Mwangi began his poetry journey while in high school where he performed his first poem highlighting that most people in the informal settlements struggle to get access to basic infrastructure.
"I am a poet and a lover of anything that has to do with creative expressions. I always call myself a creative activist," he notes.
He notes that since then he has never looked back having performed in different events while continuously improving his skills.
The accounting student at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology tells Mtaa Wangu that he looks forward to seeing his pieces evoke change and good governance.
"I hope the powerful words and performances will be instruments for change in Nakuru and the country at large," he says.
The 21-year-old who draws inspiration from his mother's experiences says that it's not been easy to balance school and art. He has had to utilize his free time to practice and perform to perfect his skills.
His career is on a rising trajectory as he has already produced his first album called Struggles za Mtaa. The nine-track album highlights issues about insecurity, climate change, good governance, and youth engagement in development.
He reveals that he's already on a tour to promote the album where he had a performance in Nairobi and is set to perform in Kisumu and Nakuru.
Mwangi highlights that for art to pay, it's important to be a brand; one that should be protected at all costs.
He encourages upcoming artists to tap into the opportunities available especially with social media to market their art to the world.