Gideon Palm Tree

Lilongwe-based poet Gideon Makondetsa Thole (born 6 March 1998), known on stage as Gideon Palm Tree, is celebrated in Malawi’s poetry industry for his captivating wordplay and powerful performances. A writer, bilingual page-to-stage poet, founder of Tiwale Poetry Festival, and primary school teacher, Thole’s journey into poetry was inspired by his deep love for literature. His dedication to the craft began bearing fruit in 2018 when he published his first poetry collection, Sparks of Reality, while in Form Four at Mitundu Secondary School. Transitioning from written poetry to spoken word, he released his debut album Down the Rivers in 2020 under Legacy Music Inc while studying at Machinga Teacher's Training College. Exploring themes of social rights, climate action, and relationships, his work blends passion, creativity, and activism. He not only writes poetry that resonates with audiences but also strives to ignite conversations, foster love, and inspire positive change within communities. In 2024, Thole performed at the Deft Poetry Festival alongside renowned poets such as Hudson Chamasowa, Raphael Sitima, Q Malewezi, Rodwell Lumbe, Patwel Phiri and Silverster Kalizang'oma. In 2025, he also graced the stage at the Nasfest International Youth Cultural Festival. He has served as Secretary for the Central Region Chapter of the Poetry Association of Malawi. Thole’s discography includes albums such as Moments, Down the Rivers, and Gideon Palm Tree Poetry Collection Vol. 1, the Palms and Trees EP, and singles including Growing Up, Tataya Mzati, Apongozi, and Reflections, a masterpiece written by motivational speaker and portfolio investor Benedicto Bena Nkhoma. Looking ahead, Thole plans to publish more works advocating for mental health, social justice, and climate action. He aims to collaborate with fellow poets, musicians, and filmmakers to showcase the power of poetry in transforming lives, even in times when the art form is often overlooked.