Seventh Moroccan Poetry Festival Commences In Marrakech With Global Poetic Voices

The seventh Moroccan Poetry Festival commenced in Marrakech, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and King Mohammed VI. Organised by the Sharjah Department of Culture with Morocco’s Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, the event spanned three days at Mayadeen Hall. It gathered over 40 poets, intellectuals, and artists from various countries to celebrate the cultural bond between the UAE and Morocco.

Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Culture, attended alongside Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer and senior Moroccan officials. Al Owais conveyed greetings from H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah, highlighting that poetry serves as a humanitarian message reflecting a nation's conscience. He stated that this festival strengthens ties between the UAE and Morocco through cultural cooperation.

Samir Al Wanassi, representing Morocco’s Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, praised Sharjah's cultural initiatives led by Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. He commended the House of Poetry in Marrakech for its exemplary cultural management and noted that the festival enriches Morocco's literary scene by fostering dialogue and creativity.

The opening ceremony included a documentary on the eighth season of the House of Poetry programme in Marrakech. This showcased its diverse activities such as poetry evenings, seminars, art exhibitions, and youth workshops, highlighting its role in promoting poetic culture.

The first evening featured performances by Moroccan poet Thuraya Waqas, Chinese poet Liu Jinzi, and Nigerian poet Adeyemi Hamid Adekunle. Their presentations offered a rich blend of artistic and cultural diversity. The House of Poetry also honoured Moroccan poets Mohammed Boujbiri, Ali Shohad, and Aziza Akida for their lifetime contributions to poetry and literature.

Winners of the seventh edition's awards were announced during the event. Nigerian poet Idembe Hamid Idekbele secured first place for Best Poem while Abdul Rahman Asahli received the Poetry Criticism Award. China was recognised as this edition's guest of honour with Liu Jinzi representing it through her Arabic-translated works exploring common poetic imagery between Arabic and Chinese literature.

A Vibrant Conclusion

The festival concluded with a musical performance by Moroccan artist Abdelwahab Doukkali accompanied by the Asil Music Band. This marked a vibrant celebration of Arab, African, and international poetic unity.

With inputs from WAM