African literature is “great, creative, and diversified”, as evidenced by the esteemed prizes won by African authors, including the Nobel Prize for Literature and the Goncourt Prize, among others, said Edgar Morin. He participated as a guest in the “Grand entretien” section, a highlighted segment of the second edition of the Marrakech African Book Festival (FLAM), ongoing until Sunday.

Addressing a big audience at the “Etoiles de Jamaâ-el-Fna” cultural center,  the French philosopher emphasised the contribution made by African intellectuals throughout history to the liberation process.

“You are continuing this march and making a valuable contribution to world culture”, he said, addressing African intellectuals.

He further emphasized Africa’s imperative to safeguard its identity and uphold its unique perspective amidst what he described as “the invasion of the South by the North.” Morin encouraged Southern countries to leverage the technological advantage offered by the economy while remaining faithful to their identity and to the values of fraternity and solidarity that define them.

The gathering, themed “Edgar Morin, witness to two centuries and compass for our times,” provided a platform to revisit Morin’s stances on contemporary issues, particularly North-South relations, and his profound connection with the African continent.