The forum forms part of Sharjah's initiatives to support the Arabic language, strengthen the presence of Arabic poetry across Africa, reinforce cultural ties, and discover and nurture literary talent.

The opening ceremony was attended by Ahmed Saif Al Mazrouei, representative of the UAE Embassy in Benin, along with several officials and academics, including Member of Parliament Kolawole Juma Agbon, Dr Abubakar Saleh, representative of the President of the Islamic Union in Benin, and Professor Abdul Hamid Chitou Thani Alahou, Chairman of the National Council for Arab Islamic Education in Benin and President of the Islamic Cooperation Charitable Organisation in Benin.

Speakers highlighted the forum's role, over successive editions, in revitalising the poetry movement in Benin and strengthening the presence of the Arabic language. They also praised the support of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for cultural initiatives that promote and preserve Arabic literature.

The forum featured two academic lectures on Arabic poetry in Benin, followed by a poetry evening in which seven poets presented works exploring identity, the Arabic language and universal human values.

The event concluded with the announcement of the poetry competition results and the publication of a series of recommendations calling for greater support for the poetry movement and a stronger presence for the Arabic language in the Republic of Benin.