The Sharjah African Literary Festival has officially kicked off under the esteemed patronage of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority. Accompanied by the First Lady of Zanzibar, Mariam Mwinyi, and the founder and Chairwoman of the Maisha Bora Foundation, the festival celebrates Africa’s rich literary heritage. The two-day event, themed “In the Footsteps of Africa,” showcases a diverse range of literary voices, underscoring the dynamic nature of African literature while fostering cultural exchanges between Africa and the Arab world.
A Celebration of African Literature
The second edition of the Sharjah African Literary Festival commenced with a significant honor: Sheikha Bodour presented the “Sharjah Literary Appreciation Award” to renowned Zimbabwean author and novelist Tsitsi Dangarembga. This award recognizes her profound contributions to both African and global literature, reaffirming the festival’s commitment to celebrating literary talent across the continent.
Artistic Performances and Cultural Exchange
The festival’s opening ceremony featured a vibrant artistic performance by the Daw Music Academy (DCMA), which beautifully captured the essence of Africa through a fusion of song and dance. This performance not only entertained attendees but also conveyed messages of hope, love, and unity. During her tour of the festival grounds, Sheikha Bodour explored various cultural programs, meeting with writers, publishers, and guests while engaging with the artistic exhibits and children’s workshops.
Showcasing African and Emirati Talent
Running until January 18, the Sharjah African Literary Festival unites 20 African authors alongside nine Emirati writers, highlighting the evolution and modern directions of African storytelling. The festival aims to establish strong ties between African and Arab cultures, with a comprehensive program that includes 20 discussion sessions, five poetry evenings, 20 workshops for children, and 10 cooking sessions. Attendees can also look forward to interactive engagements and book signings, fostering a vibrant dialogue around the literary landscape of Zanzibar, Ethiopia, and South Africa.
A Vision for Cultural Connections
Ahmad bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority, expressed that the Sharjah African Literary Festival embodies a steadfast cultural vision, supported by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. He noted the historical connections between Sharjah and Africa, emphasizing that the festival is a contemporary reflection of those deep-rooted ties. “Through literature and thought, the festival serves as a living translation of these connections, allowing for a rediscovery of our shared histories,” he remarked.
Mariam Mwinyi, the First Lady of Zanzibar, highlighted the cultural significance of African narratives, stating, “Africa’s stories are not only written in books but are woven through its landscapes, crafts, songs, and ways of life. Literature, like heritage, carries memory and identity while holding the potential for the future.” Furthermore, Jayton McKenzie, South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, extended greetings from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, expressing gratitude for the hospitality extended by the UAE.