Uganda Poetry Society

The Uganda Poetry Society emerged as a collective of poets seeking to strengthen Uganda's literary identity through cooperation and collaboration. UPS's emergence coincided with a renewed interest in Ugandan poetry, building on traditions shaped by Okot p'Bitek and revitalized by modern collectives such as the Lantern Meet of Poets. The society is a hub for poets across Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria, and beyond. Media coverage has noted UPS’s increasing regional visibility, citing its new partnerships and expanded programming. ==Leadership==

Helm The society's president is Philip Matogo. They are assisted "by a cadre of dedicated intellectuals." Patron The society's patron is Prof. Timothy Wangusa, a Ugandan poet, novelist, academic, and former cabinet minister. ==Programs and Activities==

UPS operates a range of literary initiatives, including: • Poem of the Week features • Book reviews and literary podcasts • Visiting poet programs • Interviews and literary dialogues • Youth poetry development • Songs of Kiguli, a cross-cultural project involving children in Uganda and the United States. ==Award==

The Dr. Ivan Edwards Poetry Award is the society's annual prize and is one of the highest-value poetry awards in East and Central Africa. and encourage Ugandans to “pour out their brilliance” and prevent creative potential from remaining unrealized. Regional media coverage highlighted Unity as symbolically significant in a region" shaped by diverse histories and identities." There is no entry fee, an incentive for marginalized communities to participate. Submission Formats Submissions may be either: • a two-minute spoken word performance video • a written poem of up to 500 words Honoree The award is named after Dr. Ivan Edwards, a Ugandan-born American physician, USAF Reserve Flight Surgeon (Lt Colonel), minister, and poet. Judging Panel The judging panel includes: • Dr. Stella Nyanzi — scholar, poet, activist • Jesse Unoh — storyteller and poet • Dr. Ampat Varghese Koshy — critic, poet, educator • Joanita Atuhaire — poet • Philip Matogo — columnist, writer, poet (ex officio) • Alex White, PhD — historian and editor (ex officio) ==Impact and Reception==

Ugandan and regional media have noted UPS's growing role in the East African literary culture and beyond. Watchdog Uganda described the Society as part of a wider resurgence of contemporary poetry in East Africa, noting its growing visibility, new partnerships, and expanding regional influence. ==External links==