Photo Credit : WAM
The Sharjah Department of Culture will organise the fifth edition of the Arab Poetry Forums in Africa this July and August, following directives from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.
The cultural initiative aims to strengthen literary ties between the Arab world and Africa while promoting Arabic poetry and supporting emerging poetic talent across the continent.
This year’s edition will bring together poets, writers and literature enthusiasts from nine African countries: Chad, Mali, Ivory Coast, Benin, Nigeria, Guinea, Senegal, Niger and South Sudan. The programme will begin in Chad in July before moving through the participating nations, with the final event scheduled to take place in South Sudan in August.
Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Culture, said the Arab Poetry Forums have evolved into a significant platform for discovering and nurturing young poets. He noted that the initiative has played a key role in revitalising literary activity in participating countries by creating opportunities for poets to showcase their creativity, exchange experiences and contribute to the broader cultural landscape.
The forums are expected to feature poetry readings, literary discussions and cultural exchanges designed to encourage dialogue between African and Arab literary communities. Organisers believe the programme will continue to enhance cultural cooperation while highlighting the importance of poetry as a bridge between peoples and traditions.
In addition to the poetry events, visitors will have access to a dedicated pavilion displaying a selection of poetry collections and literary publications produced by the Sharjah Department of Culture. The exhibition aims to introduce audiences to works by Arab poets and writers while inspiring younger generations to engage with literature and creative expression.
