Rabat's Celebration as the World Book Capital 2026
On the evening of April 25, 2026, a vibrant celebration was held in Rabat to mark the official inauguration of the city as the World Book Capital for the year 2026. This event beautifully showcased the harmonious blend of heritage and modernity, featuring an array of artistic performances that included choreography, music, dramatic arts, and calligraphy. The ceremony highlighted the profound connection between literature and the historical narrative of both Morocco and the world, facilitated through engaging dialogues between actor Rachid El Ouali and child performer Zina El Ouali.
As the night unfolded, attendees were treated to expressive dance sequences choreographed by Najia Attaoui, alongside vocal performances by the renowned Malhoun artist Sanaa Marahati, all under the artistic direction of Amine Nassour. The event also featured a symbolic book handover ceremony where Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, received a notable book from Alexandre Guido Lopes Parola, the Brazilian ambassador to Morocco. This exchange symbolized the official transfer of the World Book Capital title from Rio de Janeiro to Rabat, which will hold this distinguished title until April 24, 2027.
Significance and Future Prospects
During his address, Minister Bensaid emphasized that Rabat's designation as the World Book Capital is not merely an honorary title but a significant international recognition of Morocco’s status as a beacon of thought and a bridge for intercultural dialogue. He elaborated that this selection embodies the royal vision that promotes culture as a vital tool for development and asserts the right to knowledge as fundamental for every citizen.
Bensaid assured the people of Rabat and its visitors of a remarkable program designed to bring literature out of institutional confines and into public spaces, effectively transforming the city into an open-air library where global literature meets the unique local heritage. Charaf Ahmimed, the Regional Director of UNESCO for Maghreb, remarked that Rabat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, epitomizes the dialogue between heritage and modernity, serving as a dynamic hub for sharing ideas and knowledge.
The World Book Capital 2026 event promises an extensive program comprising 342 diverse activities across various locations, all aimed at fostering a reading culture and enhancing the cultural industry.
As reported by yabiladi.com.
