The 19th Hargeysa International Book Fair opened with a powerful message of continuity, cultural preservation, and inter-African connection as Dr. Jama Musse Jama, the founder and director of the festival, declared that the passing of knowledge, vision, and values from one generation to another remains the foundation of the annual cultural gathering.
Addressing ministers, government officials, diplomats, writers, scholars, poets, students, cultural leaders, and international guests at the opening ceremony, Dr. Jama welcomed participants from across the world and highlighted the festival’s role as a bridge connecting communities through literature and storytelling.
Among the honored guests was the delegation from Eswatini, this year’s guest country, led by Dr. Dlamini and Judith Mthupha. Dr. Jama described their presence as an opportunity to deepen cultural ties between the Horn of Africa and Southern Africa.
“Literature and storytelling know no borders across our continent,” he said, emphasizing that the partnership with Eswatini represents more than official relations—it is a human connection built through shared traditions, poetry, history, and artistic expression.
The opening ceremony also paid tribute to two respected figures in Somaliland’s cultural landscape who passed away recently: veteran journalist and producer Mahamud Abdi Ali “Duale” and renowned poet Adan Tarabbi Jama, a member of the Mus-danbeed poets and journalists’ council. Dr. Jama called on attendees to remember their contributions and prayed for peace and blessings upon them.
Reflecting on the history of the Hargeysa International Book Fair, Dr. Jama noted that the festival has grown over 19 years into an institution sustained by generations of cultural leaders. He said many of today’s young organizers first attended the festival as children and are now managing the event themselves.
“This is what we mean by continuity,” he said, explaining that continuity is not merely the passage of time but the deliberate transfer of memory, purpose, and responsibility from one generation to the next.
Dr. Jama expressed appreciation to the Somaliland government institutions that supported the festival, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, immigration authorities, and security forces. He praised Somaliland’s security environment as a foundation that allows cultural events and international exchanges to flourish.
He also highlighted cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Science, saying culture remains central to education and announcing plans for future collaboration in areas including language, culture, and learning.
The Ministry of Trade and Tourism was also recognized for its role in promoting Somaliland’s economic and cultural heritage, including attractions such as the Laas Geel caves and the historic frankincense trade.
Special appreciation was extended to the Ministry of Information, National Guidance, and Culture for its long-standing partnership with the book fair. Dr. Jama welcomed Minister Hon. Barkhad Batun, describing his involvement in cultural initiatives, including the “Qabyaalad Diid” campaign launched at the Hargeysa Cultural Centre alongside former Mayor Abdikarim Ahmed Moge and other partners.
Dr. Jama also acknowledged the contributions of international partners, including the British Office, Danish Office, and Taiwan Representative Office, describing their relationships as partnerships built on consistency and mutual commitment. He invited participants to attend the “Culinary Diplomacy” session, a project recently completed with Danish support, focusing on food, culture, and cultural exchange.
The festival, he said, continues to rely on the support of Somaliland’s people, volunteers, and sponsors. He welcomed new sponsor Omaar Company, thanked Dahabshiil for its continued support, and praised volunteers whose dedication makes the event possible.
This year’s program features six days of activities, including more than 44 book launches, 22 academic and social discussion panels, art exhibitions, music performances, traditional dances, and children’s programs.
Closing his remarks, Dr. Jama invited attendees to experience the festival in the spirit of its central theme: Continuity — a celebration of memory, identity, and the future carried forward by new generations.