Two Tunisian Poets Win Prestigious Léopold Sédar Senghor International Poetry Prize
On May 9th, 2026, the 2026 edition of the Léopold Sédar Senghor International Poetry Prize was held in Milan, Italy. The ceremony, organized by the French Embassy in Italy and the International Léopold Sédar Senghor Academy, honored the best of contemporary poetry from the Mediterranean, African, and European regions.
Hanen Marouani Wins First Prize in "Inédite" Category
Hanen Marouani took home the first prize in the "Inédite" (Unpublished) category for her poem "Ce qui nous reste de lumière" (What Remains of Light). The jury praised her work for its symbolic strength and writing style, which seamlessly blends French and Arabic expressions to explore multiple identities, migrations, and the fragilities of the contemporary world.
Marouani's poem is a powerful example of intercultural dialogue, bringing together Francophonie, Arabophonie, and Italphonie in a poetic space that celebrates the encounter between cultures and imaginations. Her use of Arabic language at the heart of her poetic construction highlights the importance of linguistic diversity in contemporary literature.
Imèn Moussa Wins Second Prize in "Environnement et migrations" Category
Imèn Moussa received the second prize in the "Environnement et migrations" (Environment and Migration) category for her poem "On aimerait y vivre" (We Would Like to Live There). The jury commended her writing style, which is engaged, direct, and deeply embodied, refusing silence and complacency. Moussa's ecopoetry is a powerful critique of contemporary ecological crises, questioning the collective responsibility of citizens and governments in the face of environmental degradation.
A Shared Commitment to Academic and Literary Excellence
Both Hanen Marouani and Imèn Moussa are doctorates in French and Francophone languages and literatures, and their careers are marked by a shared commitment to academic and literary excellence. They navigate the intersection of scientific research, poetic creation, and cultural transmission, making significant contributions to the literary landscape.
A Celebration of Cultural Dialogue
The ceremony was presided over by Cheikh Tidiane Gaye, a prominent figure in cultural dialogue within the African and Francophone spaces through the International Léopold Sédar Senghor Academy. This prestigious award is a testament to the academy's mission to promote cultural exchange and understanding.
Recent Accolades for Hanen Marouani
This recognition comes on the heels of another prestigious award for Hanen Marouani. On May 1st, 2026, the Académie Claudine de Tencin in Grenoble awarded her the International Poetry Prize 2026 for her collection "Tout ira bien…", published by Le Lys Bleu editions.
