Sharjah Festival Of African Literature Celebrates Cultural Exchange With 29 Literary Guests From UAE And Africa

The inaugural Sharjah Festival of African Literature (SFAL) was launched under the theme "The Tale of Africa." This event, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, was inaugurated by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA). The festival aims to celebrate African literature and foster cultural exchange.

During the opening ceremony, Nigerian Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka received the Sharjah Lifetime Achievement in Literature Award. Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi and Ahmed Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, presented this honour to Soyinka for his significant contributions to global literature and social justice. Soyinka's works blend African mythology with themes of freedom and equality.

The four-day festival features prominent literary figures like Tanzanian author Abdulrazak Gurnah and 29 guests from the UAE and 10 African countries. The programme includes eight-panel discussions, three seminars, and 12 children's workshops focusing on African heritage through activities such as pottery-making and storytelling.

Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi highlighted the festival's importance in strengthening cultural ties. She stated that SFAL is a step towards enhancing human connections through cultural exchange. The event honours longstanding ties between Arab and African worlds, built over centuries of shared values and collaboration.

Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri emphasised SFAL's role as a global cultural convergence. He noted that SFAL reflects Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi's vision of using literature to build bridges between nations. By celebrating African literature, the festival promotes meaningful dialogue between Arab and African cultures.

The festival began with a musical performance by the Al Multaqa Orchestra, blending Arabic melodies with African rhythms. An African dance troupe also performed, showcasing vibrant costumes that reflected Africa's diverse traditions. These performances symbolised harmony between Arab and African cultures.

SFAL Co-Curator Lola Shoneyin expressed that the festival uncovers stories shaping histories while bridging past complexities. She praised Sheikha Bodour for her friendship with Africa, highlighting the need for platforms to collaborate between Africa and the Arab world.

Sheikha Bodour toured the festival venue, engaging with participants in workshops offering hands-on experiences in traditional crafts. The public, especially children, enjoyed these interactive sessions that showcased African cultural heritage through storytelling.

Culinary Delights and Musical Performances

SFAL presents an enriching line-up of literary icons like Nigerian authors Chika Unigwe and Nnedi Okorafor. Attendees can enjoy four culinary sessions led by chefs such as Wana Udobang, bringing Africa's flavours to life. Musical performances weave together African and Arabic melodies.

South African vocalist Ann Masina performed at the festival alongside roaming acts that added lively energy to the experience. These elements created an atmosphere of joy, discovery, and connection among attendees.

SFAL is not only a celebration of literature but also a testament to cultural exchange's power in inspiring unity and understanding among people from different backgrounds.

With inputs from WAM