Author Profile - Ibrahim Muniru

Biography:

Ibrahim Mohammed Muniru Kobilla was born on December 9th, 1985. He attended Presbyterian Primary and Junior Secondary schools. He had his High school education at the Ghana secondary school in Tamale. Currently, he holds a diploma in Tourism Management and aspires to be a Public relations Officer in the near future. He also wants to set up his own NGO that will cater for the needy, especially the girl child.

Five Questions with Ibrahim Muniru:

1. How long have you been writing poetry?

I have been writting poetry for the past two years.


2. Who are your favourite poets? Which poets have most influenced and informed your work?

My favourite poets are David Diop, Wole Soyinka, Kofi Awoonor and Kwesi Brew. David Diop and Kofi Awoonor are those who have had the most impact on me in terms of poetry.

David Diop was someone who had a lot of nostalgia for Africa's past and denunciation of the hypocrisy and arrogance of her colonial rulers. Among his poems, I think I like "Vultures" the best. Kofi Awoonor is very concious of his roots and traditions. "The Cathedral" is my favourite of his.

Bob Marley and Peter Tosh both have played a huge role by helping me discover my talent for writing poetry.


3. What do you hope to accomplish with your writing?

Freedom is what I hope to accomplish with my poetry. Freedom as in being able to express myself freely and to spread the message and create Black Awareness. To hold the name of Ghana high, its traditions and culture.


4. Did you encounter much poetry-related activity in Tamale?

I didn't encounter much poetry related work in Tamale. The only time I had to read poetry was in my English class. I got myself into poetry long after I had left Tamele. Poetry is one way I get things off my head, then I feel free.


5. What role do you think poetry can play in the improvement of Ghanaian society? Will poetry play a part in the community NGOs you wish to establish?

Poetry can go a long way in creating a new Ghana, a Ghana where people can get the chance to learn about themselves as African people and do away with the "slave mentality" most people still carry.

Yes, poetry will play a huge role in the NGOs that I wish to establish. I want African children to be able to express what they go through daily in their lives, and to say what they really want.

Contact Ibrahim:

1african(at)gmail.com