Five New African Sites Inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced the inscription of five new African sites as World Heritage sites following the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee in 2024.
These sites showcase the cultural and natural diversity of the continent and underscore the importance of preserving them for future generations. The newly inscribed sites are:
- Melka Kunture and Balchit, Ethiopia
- Royal Court of Tiébélé, Burkina Faso
- Historic City and Archaeological Site of Gedi, Kenya
- Sites of the Pleistocene Occupation and those of the Heritage of Nelson Mandela, South Africa
UNESCO emphasized their commitment to protecting Africa’s cultural and natural heritage through these new inscriptions. They recognize the global significance of these sites, both for their historical and cultural value and their potential to inspire future generations.
The 45th session of the World Heritage Committee also saw the removal of the Niokolo Koba National Park (Senegal) from the list of World Heritage in Danger, thanks to collaborative efforts between the Senegalese authorities, local communities, and UNESCO to mitigate threats to the site.