Tozeur Commemorates the 91st Anniversary of Abou el Kacem Chebbi's Passing
Abou el Kacem Chebbi (February 24, 1909 - October 9, 1934), whose work remains timeless and universal, is the author of the famous poetry collection "The Songs of Life". He is a symbol of the Tunisian Republic, and his poetry is a reference for all those who glorify life. In partnership between the regional delegation of cultural affairs of Tozeur and various cultural institutions in the region, Tozeur is hosting a large program throughout the month, in the presence of Tunisian and foreign poets, writers, and academics. The mausoleum of Abou el Kacem Chebbi, named after the poet of Tunisia who disappeared at just 24 years old, and his universal work, hosted a three-day event on Thursday morning, around the theme "Chebbi and the issues of emancipation and freedom". "The choice of this theme is not fortuitous, as it coincides with a period marked by a lack of peace in several areas around the world," said the delegate for cultural affairs in Tozeur. In a statement to the TAP correspondent in Tozeur, the representative of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs presented this year's program, which will continue until the end of October. This annual meeting includes a fair dedicated to Chebbi's collections, as well as old and new publications around the poet's work. Exhibitions of plastic arts and calligraphy, poetry readings, artistic workshops, tributes, intellectual seminars, and poetic evenings are also on the menu for this event, organized on October 9, 10, and 11, 2025, in various cultural institutions and public libraries in the region. On this occasion, a tribute was paid to the writer and philosopher Chedli Essaker, a native of Tozeur, who has always been present at the annual celebration of the poet. Note that an annual prize called "The Arab Abou Kacem Chebbi Prize for Young Poets" is awarded at the end of the commemoration program. This prize is dedicated to Chebbi's prolific work, which continues to nourish the memory of peoples who aspire to freedom. The "poet of lights", as he is nicknamed, wrote about a hundred poems on various themes, including life, death, freedom, revolt, melancholy, and exile. In addition to poetry, Chebbi's literary writings in prose are also important. The poetry of this great Arabophone poet of modern times is translated into several languages, taught in universities, and adapted into musical works.
