The festival, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, is being held from January 14-18 at University City Square under the theme “On the Path of Africa,” celebrating African literary and cultural creativity. This participation underscores the Institute’s commitment to preserving heritage and strengthening its presence at international cultural events.
Depth of heritage presence
His Excellency Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of SIH, stated that the Institute’s participation for the second consecutive year in the Sharjah Festival of African Literature reflects its commitment to highlighting the shared heritage between the Arab and African worlds. He noted that this participation takes various forms, encompassing literary, craft, and artistic aspects, and includes performances by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage’s troupe (Sharjah National Troupe), which showcases folk arts with deep Afro-Arab roots.
Roots in history
Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam explained that the roots of Arab-African communication extend back more than a thousand years, witnessing extensive cultural, commercial, and social exchange, particularly between East Africa and the UAE, especially the Emirate of Sharjah. He emphasised that the festival embodies this historical relationship and highlights the cross-fertilisation of Arabic literature with its African counterpart.
Examples of Afro-Arab heritage
The Chairman of SIH noted that the Institute is keen to reflect the shared Arab and African heritage by presenting examples of Afro-Arab heritage. He highlighted demonstrations of palm-frond weaving and other weaving arts, including examples similar to Nubian art, as well as other Afro-Arab arts that reflect the unity and diversity of the cultural heritage.
Session on mythical creatures
Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam added that he will participate in a session as part of the festival’s events and activities, during which he will discuss mythical creatures of African origin, reviewing four legendary beings and their cultural and symbolic significance in African popular memory.
Striking similarity between Emirati and Zanzibari crafts
During his meeting with the First Lady of Zanzibar, Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam noted that Ms Mweini expressed astonishment at the striking similarity between Zanzibari and Emirati handicrafts, emphasising that this resemblance reflects the deep cultural and civilisational ties between the Arab and African worlds and their long history of interaction and mutual influence.
The Sharjah Institute for Heritage’s presence and participation in the Sharjah Festival of African Literature demonstrate its commitment to fostering cultural dialogue, highlighting shared roots, and strengthening the values of diversity and cultural exchange among peoples.
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