The town of Béni Yenni in Algeria's Kabylie region has marked the 30th anniversary of the disappearance of renowned writer and anthropologist Mouloud Mammeri. The commemoration took place at the Mouloud Mammeri cultural center in the village of Taourirt Mimoune. Local authorities, representatives from the culture department, and members of the associative and cultural movement attended the event. Anthropologist Ali Saiad, a close friend of Mammeri, was also present.
The commemoration began with a speech by Béni Yenni's mayor, Smail Deghoul, who paid tribute to Mammeri as the father founder of the Amazigh dimension in Algeria and North Africa. Deghoul highlighted Mammeri's contributions to the Amazigh language, transforming it from an oral to a written language. He noted that Mammeri's work, including the Tajarumt dictionary and grammar of Tamazight, was instrumental in promoting the language and culture.
The mayor also announced plans to honor Moulay Seddik Timi, a companion of Mammeri who passed away in September. Other speakers praised Mammeri's work and its impact on the Amazigh language, Berber cultural heritage, and identity. The commemoration also included various activities, such as an exhibition showcasing Mammeri's work and life, a conference by journalist Ali Bachouchi, and an inter-school competition.
The inter-school competition, which involved five primary schools, tested students' knowledge of the Amazigh language and culture, particularly Mammeri's work. The event also featured a theater performance by the Ouacif troupe and a book fair selling Mammeri's books and works by other Tamazight authors. A prize-giving ceremony for the best jewelry maker of 2018/2019 was also part of the program.
Further activities planned for the commemoration included a wreath-laying ceremony at Mammeri's tomb, a conference on the concept of "amousnaw," and a permanent exhibition on Mammeri's work. The town of Béni Yenni is also working on establishing an annex to the Mouloud Mammeri cultural center. The project has received an agreement in principle, according to the mayor.
The commemoration of Mammeri's disappearance highlights the significance of his work in promoting the Amazigh language and culture. The events organized in Béni Yenni demonstrate the continued relevance of his legacy and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The town's efforts to promote the Amazigh language and culture are ongoing, with initiatives such as the jewelry-making competition.
The anniversary commemoration concluded with a renewed commitment to continuing Mammeri's work and promoting the Amazigh language and culture. The events in Béni Yenni have shown that Mammeri's legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations. His contributions to the Amazigh language and culture remain a vital part of Algeria's cultural heritage.
Key points
- Mouloud Mammeri's work transformed the Amazigh language from oral to written form.
