coup d’envoi de la manifestation culturelle « S’beiba »
Cultural Festival "S’beiba" Kicks Off in Djanet
The "S’beiba" cultural festival commenced on Wednesday in Djanet, welcoming artistic and cultural groups from various regions of Algeria, as well as representatives from Libya. The theme for this year’s festival is "S’beiba: A Story to Tell, An Eternal Work."
A Celebration of Cultural Unity
The festival’s importance is highlighted by the presence of participants from different provinces, including Timimoun, Bechar, Ouargla, and In-Salah. The participation of the neighboring country, Libya, emphasizes the deep cultural bonds shared between the two nations. Nacer Bekkar, the festival commissioner, noted during the opening ceremony that esteemed professors from universities in Tamanrasset and Algiers are also part of the event, adding an academic dimension to the cultural gathering.
Significance of the Event
According to M’hamed Moumène, the Wali (Governor) of Djanet, the S’beiba festival is not merely a local event; it embodies Algeria’s authentic cultural heritage. In 2014, UNESCO recognized it as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, a testament to its profound symbolism, beauty, and unique aspects. The festival serves as a cornerstone for cultural and tourism development in the region, instilling pride among the youth.
Moumène emphasized the significance of community involvement, particularly from cultural associations and neighborhood committees like Ksour El-Mizane and Zelouaz, in preserving the spirit of the festival.
Promoting Peace and Cultural Exchange
Abdelkader Hefaoui, director of the National Office of the Tassili N’Ajjers Cultural Park, highlighted that the annual festival acts as an authentic cultural symbol that fosters peace and belonging. It reflects a confluence of African, Amazigh, and Arab cultures present in North Africa.
Activities and Programs
The festival promises a rich array of activities, including workshops, exhibitions, and performances. It aims to integrate intangible cultural heritage into a framework for sustainable cultural and tourism development. The celebrations continue until next Monday, featuring artistic nights, study days, cultural exhibitions, traditional crafts, and field trips, as outlined by the organizers.
Conclusion
The S’beiba festival is a vibrant celebration of Algeria’s rich cultural tapestry, fostering community engagement and cross-cultural dialogue while promoting the region’s unique heritage.
