Born and bred in Kibera slums, my name is Haggai Imbiaka a poet, a spoken-word artist, a writer and a born-again Christian. I also have a passion for community development and mentorship, having been involved in founding and running several CBOs within Kibera.
My writing journey started in high school; i must have been in form three; I was struggling with so many issues both from home and in school. I started pouring my heart out on paper, and like a weaver, as the thread of words fused with my emotions and thought, I found some sort of therapy and found relief from the issues i was battling.
I never thought what I was writing was poetry until a friend of mine got hold of my journal and he exclaimed that he did not know I was a poet! From here, i begun taking poetry seriously. Over the years I have had great opportunities to grace many stages and my poems have appeared in many magazines and literal journals such as the Journal of African Youth Literature.
The publishing journey wasn’t an easy one. It is really hard to get a traditional publisher interested in publishing an anthology, especially if it is from unknown author. I tried several publishers to no avail that is when I decided that I will go the self-publishing way. I did a lot of research. I learned how to design a book, how to format it ready for printing and even did the book design all myself until I got it. I believe was so determined. Next I looked for printing companies and CLC popped up as one of the options. I believe I loved the mission for CLC, and the fact that we’re a Christian entity made me even more happy. They were really kind and helpful and as they say the rest is history!
If you would love to read more of poems you can follow me @haggaiimbiaka on Instagram.
Poetry is music to the soul. Your Poetry is so refreshing and therapeutic. Finding solace in books is an awesome aspect of your journey. Keep writing.
Poetry is powerful in communication.