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In February 2025, Misrak Terefe, a well-known Ethiopian poet and co-founder of the cultural collective Tobiya Poetic Jazz, was detained by the Addis Ababa Police Commission’s Third Division. The reasons for her arrest were not publicly clarified by authorities, though reports from sources close to her suggest it may have been related to a poem she presented for Adwa celebrations that circulated widely on social media. Terefe was released three days later, following public advocacy from diaspora artists and human rights supporters, including Lemn Sissay, Index on Censorship, and Ethiopian Defenders.

Her brief detention resonated widely among Ethiopia’s artistic community and diaspora. Observers and supporters framed the arrest as emblematic of ongoing pressures on independent cultural initiatives, though no publicly available government statement or court document confirms this as a formal policy or warning. Despite these uncertainties, Tobiya Poetic Jazz, often described as one of Ethiopia’s key platforms for contemporary poetry and acoustic jazz, has continued its activities .

Following the incident, Tobiya Poetic Jazz maintained its programming, including poetry readings and jazz performances. While some observers suggest the collective may be operating with heightened caution, local press and sources do not provide confirmed evidence of systematic changes to programming or self-censorship. The group has not formally disbanded and continues to be a hub for creative engagement in Addis Ababa.

The public outcry surrounding Terefe’s arrest demonstrates the vigilance of the diaspora and international arts communities. Advocacy statements, social media campaigns, and public commentary have highlighted concerns about freedom of expression in Ethiopia. While some interpret her detention as part of a broader climate of scrutiny, local reporting confirms primarily the arrest and release, with Terefe and Tobiya Poetic Jazz continuing their work in the arts sector.

As of late 2025, there are no publicly documented reports of further arrests or closures affecting Terefe or Tobiya Poetic Jazz. However, observers continue to note that Ethiopia’s independent arts scene faces challenges, making continued attention and support from local and international audiences valuable for the preservation of creative expression.

In February 2025, Ethiopian poet Misrak Terefe, co-founder of Tobiya Poetic Jazz, was briefly detained in Addis Ababa, sparking global discussion about artistic freedom. While released after three days, the incident illustrates both the resilience of Ethiopia’s arts scene and ongoing pressures faced by independent creatives. Tobiya Poetic Jazz continues to foster poetry and jazz performances despite uncertainty.

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