The Zliten International Festival of Folk Horsemanship has gone global after a well‑received inaugural event in western Libya last year. This equestrian celebration is one of several that showcase Libya’s rich horse‑riding traditions, featuring a range of riding skills, poetry recitations and traditional craftsmanship. Large crowds cheered as riders displayed their talents on horses adorned with vibrant, handmade saddles, while participants wore traditional Libyan white and black uniforms that highlighted the country’s cultural heritage.
According to Mustafa al‑Jahawi, a festival participant, horsemanship is deeply rooted in Libya’s history and remains relevant today. He emphasized that the festival sends a message of peace and unity, both domestically and internationally, demonstrating that Libyans are a united people despite their differences.
Libya has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a NATO‑backed uprising in 2011 that led to the overthrow and death of longtime autocrat Muammar Gaddafi. Since then the country has been fragmented, with rival administrations in the east and west, each backed by armed groups and foreign governments. Currently, Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbehiba’s government governs from Tripoli, while Prime Minister Ossama Hammad’s administration governs eastern Libya.
Despite these difficulties, the festival has provided an opportunity for Libyans to reconnect with their roots and showcase their heritage, traditions and customs to the world. Noureddine Abu Sbeih, a resident of Zliten, described the event as a gateway to Libya’s rich cultural heritage. Organizers noted participation from neighboring countries, including Tunisia and Algeria.
The two‑day festival, which concluded on November 22, highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting Libya’s equestrian traditions. By sharing these traditions internationally, Libyans aim to change perceptions abroad and promote a message of peace and unity. As the country continues to navigate its complex political landscape, events like the Zliten International Festival of Folk Horsemanship remind citizens of the importance of cultural heritage and national identity.
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