Sharjah24: The Nouakchott Arabic Poetry Festival concluded its tenth edition, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Organised by the Sharjah Culture Department, the festival spanned three days with notable participation from Mauritanian poets, intellectuals, and critics, as well as African participants from Mali, Guinea, Ghana, and Senegal.
Closing ceremony
The closing ceremony took place at the House of Poetry in Nouakchott, attended by Abdullah bin Muhammad Al-Owais, Head of the Sharjah Culture Department, and other cultural figures. The tenth edition featured various activities, including poetry readings and book signings for poetry collections published by the Sharjah Culture Department in 2025.
Final day activities
The final day included a critical seminar titled "Contemporary Mauritanian Poetry Between Authenticity and Renewal," featuring speakers such as Dr. Muhammad Al-Hassan Muhammad Al-Mustafa and Dr. Muhammad Al-Amin Al-Sheikh Ahmed. The seminar aimed to clarify the significance of poetry in Mauritanian culture and its connection to identity and contemporary life.
Research focus
Researchers discussed the rhythmic structure of traditional Mauritanian poetry, the evolution of rhythm, and the internal rhythm of poetry. They highlighted cultural and social influences on Mauritanian poetry, considering the impact of heritage, the desert environment, and societal transformations.
Closing poetry evening
The closing poetry evening featured four poets: Sidi Muhammad Bab, Abu Bakr Al-Mami, Muhammad Danso Dansola from Guinea, and Muhammad Najy Ahmedo. Their poems explored deep themes and transported the audience into their creative worlds.