A conversation with Writer, Carey Baraka—
This past month, I sat down with Carey Baraka. Carey is a writer from Kisumu, Kenya. Carey has bylines in publications such as Popula, Lithub, Foreign Policy, and Johannesburg Review of books. He also sings for a ‘secret choir’ in Nairobi.
We came across Carey’s writing in his essay The failed promise of Kenya’s smart city. It is a thought-provoking article that draws from history, economics & political theory, along with connecting details only available to someone on the ground.
“African governments keep burning money planning smart cities by following a McKinsey blueprint.
But will any actually be completed?…"
Our conversation was wide-ranging, illuminating, and a great example of us tripping over our own truths. We discussed Kenya’s geography and colonial past, along with how Carey grew up with many western influences, like Harry Potter.
Below are timestamps of the conversation to skip around (or just clear your mind and press play to hear a thoughtful conversation).
We thank Carey for his time, research, and eclectic mind. Enjoy the conversation, and until next time - Ad Astra!
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Timestamps:
“I am alive because my Kenyan great-grandfather quarantined 100 years ago and here we go again” (02:16)
“Growing up in Kisumu, we were always aware of the train, but only in the back of our minds.” (06:09)
Carey’s experience growing up in Kenya (14:09)
Carey’s influences on his curiosity and learning development (20:29)
Carey talks about roots, place, silence, memory, and identity (28:14)
Carey’s writing & editing process, and how he channels his experiences & ‘the muse’ during flow states (41:14)
Carey’s essay on Konza, Africa’s failed smart city (47:29)
Carey’s push to highlight women African writers (57:29)
Carey’s answer to ‘The Overview Effect’ question (01:06:31)
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More on Carey Baraka:
Website: https://careybaraka.com/
Twitter: @CareyBaraka
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