The fifth edition of the African Arabic Poetry Forums was recently held in the Republic of Niger. The event was organised by the Sharjah Department of Culture's Cultural Affairs Department and took place under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. The forum's closing ceremony was attended by several notable academic and cultural figures.
The forum's cultural coordinator, Amadou Ali Ibrahim, noted that the event builds on a cultural project aimed at strengthening Arabic's presence in Africa. It seeks to encourage literary and creative talent and enrich cultural dialogue. The event attracts Arabic-language enthusiasts each year, including academics, students, literature lovers, and emerging poets.
Professor Koni Souleymane, Dean of the Faculty of Arabic Language and Humanities at the Islamic University of Niger, praised the gathering of participating poets. He highlighted the talents of young African Arabic poets and described their work as a deeply rooted experience.
The forum featured poetry readings, which enriched the programme and supported literary production. Dr Mohammed Ag Mohamed, President of the Coordination of Arabic-Speaking Associations and Organisations in Niger, expressed gratitude to Sharjah for its efforts to support Arab culture. He commended the cooperation with the Niger Cultural Club in organising the event.
Dr Mohammed Ag Mohamed stressed that poetry is both memory and knowledge, rather than merely an art form. He underscored the importance of supporting Arabic literature in Africa and expressed hope that the forums would continue, offering young people opportunities for cultural exchange.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including Professor Ali Tasea, former Director of Higher Arabic Education at the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Technological Innovation. Others included Professor Abdelrazak Chousso, Vice President for Academic Affairs at the Islamic University of Niger, and Professor Ali Yacoub, Dean of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at the Islamic University of Niger.
The African Arabic Poetry Forums have become a significant platform for promoting Arabic literature and culture in Africa. The event has provided a space for poets, critics, and literature enthusiasts to come together and celebrate the richness of Arabic poetry.
Key points
- The fifth edition of the African Arabic Poetry Forums was organised by the Sharjah Department of Culture's Cultural Affairs Department.
- The event aimed to strengthen Arabic's presence in Africa and encourage literary and creative talent.
- The forum featured poetry readings and supported literary production.
