Mona Anis is a prominent Egyptian journalist, translator, and editor known for her extensive contributions to English-language cultural and political journalism in Egypt.
She is the daughter of the renowned Egyptian intellectual, mathematician, and leftist thinker Abdel-Azim Anis.
Career and Journalism
Mona Anis has been a core fixture of Al-Ahram Weekly—the prominent English-language newspaper published in Cairo—where she has served in senior editorial roles, including managing editor.
Through her work in journalism, she has covered major intellectual, literary, and political developments in Egypt and the Arab world, writing deeply analytical pieces, obituaries, and cultural commentaries (such as profiles and reflections on notable figures like Edward Said and Nasr Hamed Abu Zayd)
Translation Work
In addition to her editorial career, she is recognized as a skilled translator who has bridged Arabic literature and the English-speaking world, translating significant literary and historical texts—such as works related to modern Egyptian history, memoirs, and contemporary narratives.
Some of her important achievements in translation are:
Ahmed Fouad Negm's Poetry: She translated collections of works by the legendary Egyptian colloquial and revolutionary poet Ahmed Fouad Negm (including pieces featured under projects like I Say My Words Out Loud and performances of his famous poems such as "The Prison Ward" and "Mother Egypt"). Her close association with Negm led her to accept the prestigious Principal Prince Claus Award on his behalf in 2013.
Mahmoud Darwish's Poetry and Prose: She has translated notable works and selections by the iconic Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, capturing complex themes of memory, identity, and resistance.
Cultural and Critical Essays: Working alongside her long-term career as a journalist and senior editor at Al-Ahram Weekly, she has translated critical essays, political-cultural commentaries, and tributes (such as pieces on Edward Said and regional literary figures) for English-language readership.
She is currently editorial consultant at Dar El Shorouk.
Among her works are Albert Arie's Memoirs of a Jewish Egyptian, Lord Milner's Diary in Egypt and Other Documents (1919–1920) and Mohamed Sayed Ahmed: Lamahat min Hayat Ghaneya (Glimpses from a Rich Life)
