The Algerian cultural association Adrar n Fad is set to host the 17th edition of the Amazigh Poetry Festival in the town of Aït-Smail, in the province of Béjaïa, from March 28. The festival, which has been running for over a decade, aims to promote the Amazigh language and culture. This year's edition is dedicated to the memory of Kaysa Khalifi, a renowned writer who passed away on June 25. Khalifi was a prominent figure in Amazigh literature, known for her contributions to poetry, novels, and cultural activities.
Adrar n Fad was founded on March 10, 1994, by a group of young people from Aït Smail. The association's primary objectives include promoting the Amazigh language and culture, preserving cultural heritage, and creating and training artistic and theatrical troupes. Over the years, Adrar n Fad has published several books, bulletins, and cultural reviews, including the "Tafat" review, which was founded in 1994. The association also runs a library and a small museum of art and traditional objects.
The festival will feature a range of activities, including conferences, roundtable discussions, and a poetry competition. Over 80 poets are expected to participate in the event, which will also include a study day on linguistic and literary topics. The festival will also see the launch of the Kaysa Khalifi Prize, which will be awarded to outstanding contributions to Amazigh literature. The prize is an initiative of the association to recognize and reward talented writers.
In addition to the poetry competition, the festival will also feature a new prize for short stories, which was introduced in 2018. The association aims to expand the festival to include other literary genres, such as theater, cinema, and novels, in the coming years. The festival's organizers have been working tirelessly to ensure the success of the event, which is expected to attract visitors from across the region.
One of the major challenges facing the festival organizers is the issue of accommodation for participants. With many guests traveling from far and wide, the association needs to provide decent housing and catering for them. However, the lack of infrastructure in the area, including schools with boarding facilities and youth hostels, makes it difficult for the association to provide adequate accommodation.
To overcome these challenges, the association relies on donations and support from local authorities, businesses, and individuals. The association's president, Hakim Kerrache, has expressed his gratitude to all those who have contributed to the festival's preparations and has called on others to support the event. The association is also counting on the support of the local population to make the festival a success.
The 17th Amazigh Poetry Festival promises to be an exciting and enriching event, showcasing the best of Amazigh literature and culture. With its focus on promoting the Amazigh language and culture, the festival is an important platform for Amazigh writers, poets, and artists to share their work and connect with others. The festival's organizers are confident that the event will be a success, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the association's members and supporters.
Key points
- The 17th Amazigh Poetry Festival will be held in Aït-Smail, Algeria, from March 28, honoring the late writer Kaysa Khalifi.
