Somali president meets poets to discuss arts in state-building
Mohamud used the occasion to commend Somali poets for what he described as decades of service in defending national unity, safeguarding cultural heritage and delivering messages that both inform and uplift the public.
Tuesday May 26, 2026
Mogadishu (AX) — In a meeting that underscored the enduring power of words in Somali public life, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Monday sat down with leading Somali poets and literary figures to discuss how arts and literature can help deepen public awareness, support state-building and reinforce national identity.
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Mohamud used the occasion to commend Somali poets for what he described as decades of service in defending national unity, safeguarding cultural heritage and delivering messages that both inform and uplift the public.
Mohamud said poetry and literature remain important tools for rebuilding national consciousness and strengthening social cohesion among Somalis.
During the discussion, poets presented ideas on how to promote Somali culture, foster patriotism and harness the creative arts in support of peace, governance and national development.
For generations, Somali poetry has occupied a central place in politics, social debate and public mobilization, with poets often helping shape national conversations on unity, conflict, reconciliation and civic duty.
