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The event was organised by the Department of Cultural Affairs at the Sharjah Department of Culture, in collaboration with the Union of Muslim Scholars of South Sudan. It forms part of the Arab Poetry Forums in Africa initiative, which aims to promote the Arabic language, expand the reach of classical Arabic poetry, and enhance its presence among poets and creatives across the continent.
The forum in South Sudan marks a new stop in a growing series of Arab poetry forums that have been held across several African countries, including Chad, Guinea, Senegal, Nigeria, Niger, Mali, and Côte d’Ivoire. The initiative is expected to continue expanding to new destinations, reflecting its inclusive vision and commitment to cultural exchange and creative diversity throughout Africa.
Held in the capital Juba, the forum witnessed notable official and cultural attendance. Among the dignitaries present were His Excellency Mohy El-Din Salem, Representative of the Arab League in South Sudan; Sheikh Dr Abdullah Borg Rual, Secretary-General of the Islamic Council; Sheikh Hamdin Shakirin bin Lawal Al-Owaili, Grand Mufti of South Sudan; Dr Mohammed Gai Lokwaj, President of the Union of Muslim Scholars of South Sudan and General Coordinator of the forum; and Sheikh Dr Mohammed Kual Kwat, Secretary-General of the same union.
From the academic sector, Professor Paul Deng, former Director of Upper Nile University and Professor of Arabic at the University of Juba, was also in attendance, alongside several Arab diplomats, poets, academics and cultural figures with an interest in the Arabic language.
In his welcome address, Dr Mohammed Gai Lokwaj praised the presence of the audience and emphasised the significance of Sharjah’s cultural sponsorship, led by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. He highlighted Sharjah’s pivotal role in supporting the Arabic language and strengthening its presence in Africa.
He described the forum as a direct outcome of Sharjah’s enlightened vision—one that views culture as a bridge of communication and a powerful tool for social peace and identity preservation. Lokwaj also commended the expanding impact of the Arab Poetry Forums in Africa, which have become vital platforms for nurturing creativity and giving young poets the opportunity to express themselves in Arabic.
His Excellency Mohy El-Din Salem, the Arab League’s representative in South Sudan, expressed deep appreciation for Sharjah’s initiative in embracing the Arabic language at the heart of the continent. He stressed that such forums help build cultural bridges between nations and enhance Arab presence in Africa through creativity and knowledge.
For his part, Sheikh Dr Abdullah Borg Rual, Secretary-General of the Islamic Council, affirmed that Arabic is not merely a means of communication but also a bearer of noble civilisational and spiritual values. He praised Sharjah’s continued support for Arab culture and its positive influence in strengthening these values in Africa’s religiously and culturally diverse societies.
The poetry readings featured a wide range of themes, from emotional and human experiences to patriotic and philosophical reflections. Participating poets shared personal dreams, social concerns, and tributes to the beauty of the Arabic language.
The performances carried a strong sense of nostalgia for identity, pride in homeland, and an evocation of African spirit through an Arab lens. Classical and contemporary styles intermingled, blending poetic imagery with the rhythm of daily life.
The variety of poetic experiences and techniques added a distinct richness to the evening, offering the audience a broad spectrum of poetic visions that reflected both cultural depth and the life journeys of the poets.
Among the poems read were “I am the South” by Yousef Gai Qoul, and “For you, my country” by Martin Wadah Mian.
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