Tunisian Literary Scene Shines at 40th Edition of Tunis International Book Fair
The Kram Exhibition Palace vibrated with literary recognition on Saturday, as the 40th edition of the Tunis International Book Fair came to a close. Under the presidency of Minister of Culture Amina Srarfi, the event celebrated the excellence of Tunisian literature and the vitality of its publishing industry.
In her opening speech, the Minister highlighted the strategic importance of the event, describing it as a vital space dedicated to celebrating books and their creators. She emphasized that the fair serves as a crucial bridge between authors and their audience, while solidifying Tunisia's position as a hub of intellectual thought. The Minister also underscored the President of the Republic, Kaïs Saïed's, particular interest in the cultural sector, reiterating that culture remains the foundation for awakening consciences and building humanity.
The highly anticipated announcement of the winners shed light on notable works published between 2025 and 2026. The prestigious Béchir Khraïef Prize for Creative Writing was awarded to Amina Zreig for her novel "Under Amsterdam's Bridge," while Hafidha Kara Bibane took home the Ali Douagi Prize for Short Story with her collection "I, the Killer and Our Shadows."
The field of humanities and literature saw the Tahar Haddad Prize awarded ex-aequo to Adel Kheder for his essay "In Love and War" and Mohamed Haddad for his analysis on "The Secularization of Religious Reform." Poetry was also honored with the Mustapha Khraïef Prize, which went to Mohamed Nasser Mouelhi for his collection "No House for the Grandchild's Window." In the realm of translation, Ahmed Hizem stood out with "From One Oasis to Another" under the Sadok Mazigh Prize.
The youth literature and editorial dynamism sectors were not left behind. The Abdelkader Ben Cheikh Prize recognized the work of Zeineb Ben Othman with the "Nahnou" editions, while the Noureddine Ben Khedher Prize for Best Tunisian Editor was awarded to Sami Mokaddem's "Pop Libris" publishing house.
However, the Fatma Haddad Prize for Philosophical Writings had to be declared vacant due to insufficient competition.
The ceremony concluded with a solemn note, as a series of tributes were paid to the great thinkers who have shaped Tunisian thought. Illustrious figures such as historian Mohamed Hassine Fantar, musicologist Mahmoud Guettat, playwright Ezzeddine Madani, and poet Moncef Mezghanni were honored for their invaluable contributions to the national heritage, marking the 40th edition with the seal of transmission and gratitude.
