The town of Agouni Gueghrane, located in the southern part of Tizi Ouzou province in Algeria, is set to honor one of its most famous sons, Slimane Azem, with a monument. The local authorities have decided to build a stèle, or monument, in his likeness using the communal budget. The monument will be erected in the town's central square, replacing an old building that previously served as a post office. Demolition work has already begun.
The mayor of Agouni Gueghrane, Farid Bachouche, announced that the town aims to inaugurate the monument on September 19, which marks the 102nd anniversary of Slimane Azem's birth. However, the date may be pushed back to August to allow the local community living abroad to attend. Azem is widely regarded as a pioneer and founder of Kabyle music, and his songs often dealt with themes of democracy, Amazigh culture, and the struggles faced by the people of Kabylie.
According to Mayor Bachouche, the choice of Slimane Azem for the monument was not arbitrary. He explained that while many artists and activists deserve recognition, Azem is particularly notable for his contributions to Kabyle music and culture. Azem's songs often addressed issues such as independence, migration, and social hardship, making him a beloved figure in Kabylie and beyond.
The monument is not the only project planned to honor Slimane Azem. The mayor also announced that the town plans to restore Azem's family home after the monument's inauguration. The project is expected to be costly, and the mayor has called for community participation to support its realization. Azem's legacy continues to be celebrated in Agouni Gueghrane, where he was born on September 19, 1918.
This is not the first time that Agouni Gueghrane has honored Slimane Azem. In 2018, the town's authorities, in collaboration with the "Ighrane" association, organized a cultural week to mark the centenary of Azem's birth. The event featured an exhibition on Azem's life and work, as well as conferences and galas. The town's commitment to preserving Azem's legacy is a testament to his enduring impact on Kabyle culture.
Slimane Azem passed away on January 28, 1983, in France at the age of 64. Despite his passing, his music and legacy continue to be celebrated in Algeria and beyond. The monument in Agouni Gueghrane is set to become a major landmark and a symbol of the town's pride in its cultural heritage.
The town's efforts to honor Slimane Azem are a reflection of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and promoting local identity. The monument and restoration projects are expected to not only pay tribute to Azem's legacy but also contribute to the town's cultural and economic development. As the town prepares for the monument's inauguration, residents and visitors alike are eagerly anticipating the celebration.
Key points
- The town of Agouni Gueghrane is set to unveil a monument to honor Slimane Azem, a pioneer of Kabyle music.
- The monument is expected to be inaugurated on September 19, which marks the 102nd anniversary of Azem's birth.
- The town also plans to restore Azem's family home after the monument's inauguration.
