A Palestinian born nurse has been recognised for his work highlighting the suffering of people in war torn Gaza - as Ireland’s largest community arts festival launched its programme of events.
Féile an Phobail has honoured Mohammad Samaana with its Spirit of Féile award.
The festival runs from August 1-11 with concerts, sporting events and prominent guests for the annual series of discussions.
Mr Samaana told the Irish News the award was not for him but “for the victims of the genocide in Gaza”.
“We are doing very little in order to highlight the plight of the Palestinian people. They are going through hard times, families being wiped out, towns being destroyed. I see this as an achievement for them not for me,” he said.
Féile will host Palestine Day on August 8.
Mr Samaana said the annual event showcases the hard work that has taken place over two decades from activists across the world.
“The support of Féile and the west Belfast community means a lot to us. To be in the city where you feel welcomed and where people care about the Palestinian people and those who suffer means a lot to us,” he said.
“Its important for the people of Palestine who are under bombardment to feel there are people in this outside world that care for them and that they are not abandoned.”
The largest community festival in Ireland is preparing to welcome up to 100,000 visitors to more than 400 events.
The Way Out West Féíle Country Fest in Falls Park, headlined by Nathan Carter, is expected to attract thousands.
@the_irish_news Director of Feile, Kevin Gamble spoke to the Irish News about this year's event #feile #feileanphobail #irishnews #belfastnews #westbelfast #belfasttiktok #communitynews
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Féile director Kevin Gamble said the programme of events was its biggest ever.
“Over eleven days we will have over 400 events across 40 different venues across Belfast and beyond.
“There’s something to do for all the community and we look forward to welcoming up to 100,000 people.”
Belfast mayor Micky Murray compared this year’s programme booklet to an Argos catalogue that weighed more than his chain of office.
He said Féile was not just an event, but a testament to the resilient unity of people of Belfast.
“In August 1988, the first Féile opened with a relatively humble parade of floats, bands and GAA clubs walking in their club regalia to an open-air party in Dunville Park.
“36 years on, this festival has evolved into one of the biggest in Ireland. Its a time when people can come together over shared values. Through arts and culture we find common ground.”
@the_irish_news We spoke to First Minister Michelle O’Neill at the launch of Feile 2024 #feile #westbelfast #irishnews #belfasttiktok #belfastcity #feileanphobail #belfastnews #firstminister
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It was a message echoed by First Minister Michelle O’Neill, who said diversity is a strength of Féile.
“At Féíle we see the very best of west Belfast, the best of its people, of art, culture, tradition, sport, heritage and of course, not that I need to tell anyone in this room, but the craic is second to none,” she said.
“Its a hugely positive event that has grown from the community that has a much greater reach across the city and beyond.”