4th Arab Poetry Forum Begins in Niger Backed by Sharjah

The 4th Arab Poetry Forum began in Niamey, the capital of Niger, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. This special event highlights the importance of poetry in strengthening cultural ties between Arabs and Africans. The forum is organised by the Cultural Affairs Department at the Department of Culture in Sharjah, in cooperation with the Niger Cultural Club. Ten poets from different backgrounds are participating to celebrate the richness of Arabic poetry and heritage.

Organisers and Opening Remarks

The forum started with a welcoming speech by Amadou Ali Ibrahim, President of the Niger Cultural Club and General Coordinator of the Forum. He thanked Sharjah’s Cultural Affairs Department for its strong support and efforts in bringing this event to life. He described the forum as a valuable initiative that keeps the Arabic language alive in the hearts of Africans and revives the deep heritage of Arabic poetry on the continent.

Poetry as a Bridge of Communication

Ibrahim reminded the audience that poetry continues to serve as a powerful bridge of communication. He emphasized that literature is the purest form of human expression, and Arabic remains a universal language that connects people beyond borders. The forum, he said, brings poets from various backgrounds together, ensuring that Niger’s growing Arab poetry movement receives recognition and appreciation.

New Addition: Book Signing Ceremony

For the first time in the forum’s history, the event included a book signing ceremony. This new addition was designed to celebrate the writing movement in Niger and honor the work of respected professors and authors. Ibrahim praised these scholars, stating that they see education as a mission, writing as a craft, and ideas as a guiding light for future generations.

Sharjah’s Role in Cultural Exchange

Professor Koné Soualiho delivered a speech where he warmly welcomed the poets and praised Sharjah for its continued support of cultural and literary projects in Africa. He described the forum as a bridge between African and Arab voices. In his words, African poetry embodies beauty, while Arabic poetry represents conscience and humanity, creating a meaningful connection between the two traditions.

The Value of Arabic Poetry

Dr. Mohamed Ag also addressed the gathering, highlighting that Arabic poetry is the nation’s memory and soul. He said this art form brings people together in Niger, uniting creativity, beauty, and human awareness. He further explained that the forum represents a milestone in Arab-African cooperation, as it creates an opportunity for exchanging ideas, building cultural understanding, and strengthening bonds of brotherhood.

Closing Highlights of the Forum

The event concluded with the official book signing ceremony featuring two publications, one by Professor Koné Soualiho and another by Dr. Mohamed Ag. This moment celebrated the achievements of local scholars and marked a step forward for the region’s literary movement.

Distinguished Guests

Several important figures attended the forum, including Professor Koné Soualiho, Dean of the College of Arabic Language and Humanities at the Islamic University of Niger; Dr. Mohamed Ag Mohamed, President of the Arabic-Speaking Organisations and Associations in Niger; Professor Ali Tasaa, former Director of Arab Higher Education at the Ministry of Higher Education; Ibrahim Atmouna, Director of the Libyan Cultural Centre in Niamey; and Dr. Abdul Razaq Chosso, Vice President of the Islamic University of Niger for Academic Affairs.

A Celebration of Culture and Heritage

The 4th Arab Poetry Forum in Niger successfully showcased how poetry continues to be a vital form of expression and cultural connection. Through the support of Sharjah and its leadership, the event has become a platform to unite poets and readers while encouraging creativity. It also strengthened Arab-African ties, proving once again that poetry is not only about words but also about building bridges between communities and preserving heritage for future generations.