Latest news with #SFAL
Ammon
29-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Ammon
Sharjah Festival of African Literature concludes drawing 10,000 visitors
Ammon News - The inaugural edition of the Sharjah Festival of African Literature (SFAL) has come to a close, after welcoming an impressive gathering of over 10,000 visitors. Over four days, the festival, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), transformed the outdoor spaces of University City Hall in Sharjah into a hub of creativity, dialogue, and celebration under the theme 'The Tale of Africa.' The festival featured 29 esteemed writers from the UAE and across Africa, who shared their stories, insights, and heritage through a carefully curated programme of activities, including 8 panel discussions and 3 inspiring keynotes, in addition to 12 interactive workshops for children. Commenting on the conclusion of the inaugural Sharjah Festival of African Literature, Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, emphasised the festival's role as a cultural bridge between the UAE and the diverse, rich cultures of the African continent, saying, 'SFAL showcased the beauty of African peoples preserving their authentic customs and heritage. The festival demonstrated that culture is an invaluable treasure, offering profound insights into the history of communities through mediums such as the written word, folk tales, traditional music, and handicrafts. These elements not only preserve heritage but also inspire the world.' Al Ameri further noted, 'The festival aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to position literature as the centrepiece of global cultural dialogue. Under the directives of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, we have established this event as a cultural platform that elevates Sharjah's global standing as a hub for creative and intellectual exchange. We remain committed to solidifying the role of this festival in uniting creators and promoting the authentic cultural values that connect people and enrich human communication.' SFAL celebrated the intersection of African literature, art, and heritage through a vibrant programme of discussions, workshops, and performances. Highlights included 'Far Beyond Wakanda,' exploring Africa's cultural impact on global storytelling, and creative workshops on traditional crafts like pottery and jewellery-making. The festival also offered immersive experiences such as traditional drumming, storytelling, culinary workshops in the 'Cookery Corner,' and diverse food stalls, creating a sensory journey into Africa's cultural richness. Entertainment featured enthralling cultural performances, including South African opera singer Ann Masina, whose blend of traditional rhythms and contemporary melodies resonated deeply. The Masaka Kids Africana from Uganda brought infectious energy, while acrobatic and roaming performances showcased the diversity of African heritage. On the final day, intellectual engagement and cultural immersion took centre stage. Kenyan novelist Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor reflected on The Dragonfly Sea, offering insights into East African cultural worlds, while Ugandan-British novelist Jennifer Makumbi captivated audiences with themes of identity and resilience in The First Woman. A session titled 'Crafting Characters Free from Time Constraints' explored African narratives' timeless relevance, featuring distinguished writers. WAM
Sharjah 24
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Inaugural SFAL concludes drawing 10K visitors
A diverse programme of writers and activities The festival featured 29 esteemed writers from the UAE and across Africa, who shared their stories, insights, and heritage through a carefully curated programme of activities, including 8 panel discussions and 3 inspiring keynotes, in addition to 12 interactive workshops for children. Showcasing Africa's authentic customs and heritage Commenting on the conclusion of the inaugural Sharjah Festival of African Literature, His Excellency Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, emphasised the festival's role as a cultural bridge between the UAE and the diverse, rich cultures of the African continent, saying 'SFAL showcased the beauty of African peoples preserving their authentic customs and heritage. The festival demonstrated that culture is an invaluable treasure, offering profound insights into the history of communities through mediums such as the written word, folk tales, traditional music, and handicrafts. These elements not only preserve heritage but also inspire the world.' Festival aligned with Sharjah's cultural vision Al Ameri further noted, 'The festival aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to position literature as the centerpiece of global cultural dialogue. Under the directives of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, we have established this event as a cultural platform that elevates Sharjah's global standing as a hub for creative and intellectual exchange. We remain committed to solidifying the role of this festival in uniting creators and promoting the authentic cultural values that connect people and enrich human communication.' Festival highlights and celebrations SFAL celebrated the intersection of African literature, art, and heritage through a vibrant programme of discussions, workshops, and performances. Highlights included 'Far Beyond Wakanda,' exploring Africa's cultural impact on global storytelling, and creative workshops on traditional crafts like pottery and jewellery-making. The festival also offered immersive experiences such as traditional drumming, storytelling, culinary workshops in the 'Cookery Corner,' and diverse food stalls, creating a sensory journey into Africa's cultural richness. Entertainment and cultural performances Entertainment featured enthralling cultural performances, including South African opera singer Ann Masina, whose blend of traditional rhythms and contemporary melodies resonated deeply. The Masaka Kids Africana from Uganda brought infectious energy, while acrobatic and roaming performances showcased the diversity of African heritage. Intellectual engagement and cultural immersion On the final day, intellectual engagement and cultural immersion took centre stage. Kenyan novelist Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor reflected on The Dragonfly Sea, offering insights into East African cultural worlds, while Ugandan-British novelist Jennifer Makumbi captivated audiences with themes of identity and resilience in The First Woman. A session titled 'Crafting Characters Free from Time Constraints' explored African narratives' timeless relevance, featuring distinguished writers. A successful beginning for SFAL With just one first iteration, SFAL has firmly established itself as a pillar of cultural unity, celebrating African storytelling while building bridges between cultures. Its success and reception has set the stage for an annual event of immense appeal, ensuring Africa's literary and cultural treasures continue to inspire a global audience.
Sharjah 24
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Kalimat brings 20 celebrated African works to SFAL
A highlight of Kalimat Group's participation was an interactive pavilion designed to immerse visitors in the breadth of its literary offerings. Featuring an exquisite selection of African titles that have been translated into Arabic, the pavilion highlighted Kalimat's dedication to publishing works that transcend cultural boundaries. From compelling narratives to stunning designs, each title embodied the Group's commitment to fostering global understanding through literature. Attendees had the opportunity to explore these works, gaining insight into Kalimat's vision of championing diverse voices that resonate with readers worldwide. Honouring African literary excellence The local publisher hosted an exclusive reception held on the festival's second day, celebrating the achievements of iconic African authors whose works have been translated into Arabic by Kalimat's Rewayat imprint. The honorees - Lola Shoneyin, Peter Kimani, Petina Gappah, and Yvonne Owur - engaged in enriching discussions about their literary journeys and the cultural importance of their work. This event underscored Kalimat's role as a bridge between African and Arab literary traditions, fostering dialogue and mutual appreciation. Through its engaging pavilion and a distinguished reception honouring prominent African authors, the UAE-based publisher reinforced its mission to connect cultures and amplify voices across continents. SFAL, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority under the theme 'The Tale of Africa', convened 29 esteemed authors from Africa and the UAE, including Nobel laureates Abdulrazak Gurnah and Wole Soyinka. As a cornerstone of the festival, Kalimat Group's participation embodied the spirit of intercontinental collaboration and exemplified how literature can build bridges between cultures, creating new opportunities for dialogue and understanding.
Sharjah 24
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Drums and African folk tales captivate the crowds at SFAL
Gathered at SFAL's drumming and storytelling zone, children and adults were equally excited as they engaged with and learned from the session's instructor 'Columbus', who represented Afro Baobab Events, the UAE's premier African-themed event company. Columbus, who has honed his craft over decades, described the experience as a way to connect people and ignite their passions. 'Percussive instruments are something that unite us; almost all cultures in the world have them. Historically it was even a form of communication across long distances, a way to motivate and energise warriors, and was also a major part of celebrations and community gatherings,' he shared. 'It's incredible to see the joy on children's faces when they realise they can create music with their own hands. And for the adults, it's a chance to rediscover their inner child.' Teaching participants with simple rhythms, Columbus used counting techniques and mnemonic sounds to guide participants in mastering basic beats. As the participants gained confidence, he encouraged them to experiment with layering rhythms, turning the drumming circles into collaborative masterpieces to the joy of the surrounding crowds. 'One little boy told me he didn't think he'd be able to do it because it looked so complicated,' Columbus recalled with a smile. 'By the end of the session, he was leading the rhythm for the entire group. Moments like that are why I do this.' Tales passed down through centuries Complementing the drumming sessions were storytelling gatherings where African folk tales; from the clever antics of 'Anansi the Spider' to the wise lessons of 'Kofi the Tortoise'; showcased lessons passed down through generations through Columbus's masterful narration. 'Storytelling is as much a part of African tradition as the drumming,' Columbus explained. 'Each story holds a lesson like kindness, bravery, or respecting nature. These tales have been passed down for centuries, and it's an honor to share them with a new audience.' Children sat cross-legged, wide-eyed as they listened to Columbus recount tales of tricksters, heroes, and magical lands. Adults, too, found themselves immersed, laughing and nodding as the stories unfolded. The tales often ended with an interactive element, inviting participants to discuss the moral or share their interpretations, fostering a sense of community and dialogue.
Sharjah 24
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
SFAL spotlights innovative institutions in UAE & Africa
Sharjah Institute for Heritage expands global presence in 4 countries Dr. Abdulaziz Almusallam recounted his decades-long literary journey, which began at the age of 13 in Sharjah when he started volunteering for first cultural projects and witnessed the opening of local theaters and other centres of art and culture in the emirate. He highlighted the achievements of SIH, which now has more than 1,300 employees and four international offices. 'Since our establishment, following the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, we have focused on boosting awareness about Sharjah's and the UAE's heritage and local publishing. We organise the Sharjah Heritage Days Festival and the Sharjah International Narrator Forum, which have become influential international platforms,' he stated. He described SFAL as a window to enhance cultural cooperation between the UAE and Africa, noting that the festival will serve as a gateway for translating African literary works into Arabic. Known for his efforts in preserving and sharing traditional Emirati folktales, Almusallam has earned the moniker 'Fairy Tale Man' for his work in bringing stories to schoolchildren. ZODML founder says ceaseless innovation is turning more Nigerian children into readers Ifeoma Esiri shared the inspiring journey of her organisation, which began in Nigeria in 1999, inspired by her father. The organisation has achieved great success with an impressive network of 34 libraries across the African nation. Esiri detailed the challenges and innovative solutions ZODML implemented to increase library engagement.'Children were not coming into the library, so we started our 'Book Talks' series and invited young participants from schools to be involved,' she explained. This initiative encouraged children to read selected books over a month and then discuss their interpretations and opinions at the library. To address the lack of university student participation after the establishment, ZODML introduced a writing competition. 'This started to attract writers and poets, and we helped them expand their skills and capabilities,' Esiri noted, highlighting the organisation's role in nurturing new literary talent. Bringing literary engagement to Botswana Kenanao Phele shared her story of establishing the country's first book festival. 'When my two sisters and I decided to start a book festival, there was nothing like it at that time in Botswana. We would have to travel to South Africa to attend book fairs and festivals,' Phele recounted. The Gaborone Book Festival and Trust's initiatives extend beyond the festival itself. Phele described their school outreach programme, which brings books and literary engagement to students across Botswana, including those in remote rural areas. 'We have made a great effort to support the small schools in these areas, donating books and resources to make sure that all students can have the opportunities and knowledge they deserve,' she stated. Phele also emphasised the importance of collaboration, mentioning their efforts to bring authors and writers from around Africa to Botswana, inspiring local readers and writers alike.
