Exploring things of significance to me (Non-poetic.)

Wednesday 10 May 2017

Kitu Kidogo (meaning ‘Something Small’ in Swahili i.e. a phrase used to evoke bribery.)

Hi there!
Allow me to introduce myself…
First name “Kitu,” last name “Kidogo!”
Although I have various other nicknames...
Like 'Fraudulent' and 'Corrupt'
I will respond most assuredly to 'Bribery'

Where I work, it’s always lunchtime 
I don’t eat paper, but I DO like green(s)
And unless you have 'something small' for me
I will remain unbothered about your queries 
Eating your time and your tolerance
Because I like to power play like that

Speaking of power, I have it over you
So don’t go complaining to my boss
I’m doing the VERY best I can
And I have been known to sabotage ‘big-mouths!’
Besides, my boss could be in on it too
He eats way better than I do!

Now that we are well acquainted,
Tell me, how can I be of service to you?
We’ll both win if you help me, help you
And if you think you’re too good for bribes,
That’s OK… I’ll wait…. and frustrate… and exasperate…
Because bribery usually begins… where your patience ends!


Sarah Kenyi © 2017

Although this poem ends on a negative note, my hope is more people in power will continue to rise up and combat this seemingly immutable phenomenon that is corruption in Africa.