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This initiative aligns with the directives of the Sharjah Ruler to support the Arabic language and strengthen the presence of Arab poetry across Africa. The forum reflects Sharjah’s belief in the power of culture to shape individuals and foster human connection between nations.
Held at the Senegalese Literary Club in Dakar, the opening ceremony was attended by Hamdan Al Naqbi, UAE Ambassador to Senegal, and Fadel Gueye, President of the Senegalese Literary Club. Present were Arab diplomats, university professors, students, and poetry enthusiasts.
In his opening remarks, Mohamed Al Hadi Sal, the Forum’s Cultural Coordinator, expressed deep appreciation for the Sharjah Ruler, calling him “Culture’s Man”, whose efforts have globalised the Arabic language. He praised Sharjah’s continued support for poetry and literature, describing it as a vital service to Arabic heritage.
Al Hadi Sal highlighted the enduring cultural impact of Arabic, stating that the language is blossoming once again in Senegal. He described the forum as a cultural planting in land thirsty for meaning, where poetry quenches the soul with beauty.
Ambassador Hamdan Al Naqbi emphasised the strong bilateral ties between the UAE and Senegal, noting that events such as this poetry forum are genuine bridges for cultural cooperation. He commended Sharjah’s civilisational initiatives and their role in advancing the Arabic language in Africa.
Dr Fadhel Ghay, President of the Senegalese Literary Club, voiced his pride in hosting such an important event, especially one connected with Sharjah, the Capital of Culture. He praised the participating poets and underlined the importance of strategic partnerships with Sharjah in ensuring the forum’s success.
Several participants viewed the forum not just as a celebration of Arabic but as a powerful African cultural platform. They praised Arabic’s ability to reflect reality, express thought, and radiate beauty, noting that such initiatives significantly uplift the cultural landscape of the continent.
The poetry readings offered a heartfelt glimpse into the poets’ emotions and patriotism. The verses touched on personal and collective struggles, love for the homeland, and attachment to identity. Together, the poets created a vivid tapestry of hope and belonging that deeply moved the audience.
The forum opened with an emotionally rich atmosphere, where poets of various backgrounds came together. Their poems were infused with hope and affection, underscoring poetry’s role in renewing cultural thinking and strengthening human ties.
Female voices were notably present and powerful at the forum. Through tender and profound poems, women poets addressed themes of self and reality with emotional depth. Their participation added a distinct aesthetic to the evening and highlighted the richness of the poetic experience in Senegal.
The poet Umm Mohammed Al-Zahraa recited her poem "A Mother’s Embrace", expressing the enduring sacrifices and deep love of motherhood:
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