8 Poets Illuminate the Benin Arab Poetry Forum

As Part of the Fourth Edition Events

8 Poets Illuminate the Benin Arab Poetry Forum

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and organized by the Department of Culture in Sharjah, the capital of Benin, Cotonou, hosted the fourth Arab Poetry Forum on Sunday, with the participation of eight distinguished poets and the attendance of a number of poetry lovers and cultural figures.   

The Arab Poetry Forums in Africa come as a direct implementation of the vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, which aims to support and spread the Arabic language, strengthen the presence of Arabic poetry in Africa, highlight talents in eloquent Arabic verse, and serve as a bridge of communication within a comprehensive vision that elevates Arab culture and affirms its role in shaping humanity.   

The forum was attended by H.E. Ahmed Saif Al Mazroui, Deputy Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates in Benin; H.E. Raja Al Wakil, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt; Member of Parliament Kolawole Ogbon; Prof. Dr. Abdelhamid Alaho Shit Thani, representative of charitable associations in Benin and representative of the President of the Islamic Union in Benin; and Prof. Dr. Abdulwarith Shuti, Director of the Institute of Arabic Language and Islamic Culture at the University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin.

The forum was introduced by its general coordinator in Benin, Mr. Ibrahim Agbon, President of the Cooperation Association for Social Development, who expressed his gratitude for Sharjah’s distinguished cultural role. He said in his speech: “Arabic poetry has begun to flourish and evolve, both in craft and creativity, thanks to the patronage of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for this noble art in Benin. Its presence has been firmly reinforced, as Sharjah has, for decades, dedicated itself to supporting the Arabic language, the art of Arabic poetry in Africa, and honoring poets and specialists in this field.”   

Ogbon added that this forum represents an effective platform to strengthen cultural exchange among nations, and to affirm poetry’s role as a civilizational bridge that deepens bonds of brotherhood and enriches both the Arab and African literary scenes.

He further emphasized that the Benin Arab Poetry Forum welcomes the participation of creative women, granting them the opportunity to showcase their talents in imagination, creativity, and artistic beauty. He noted that the forum is open to all, providing a space for poetic voices to express themselves and contribute to enriching the cultural landscape.