Nairobi hosts UNESCO International Conference on Cultural Heritage in Africa
As an output, the conference will contribute to the repositioning of heritage authenticity and integrity in theory and practice in an African context
The International Conference on Cultural Heritage in Africa: A Dialogue on the Concept of Authenticity is taking place in Nairobi this week with the aims of fostering an exchange of research, experience, knowledge, and observations.
Organised by UNESCO, the government and the African World Heritage Fund, the event being held at the United Nations Complex in Gigiri brings together heritage experts, government officials, local communities, NGOs, and academics from across Africa and the world.
With Kenya serving as the chair of the Africa Group on the World Heritage Committee, the conference offers a timely and vital platform for thought leaders, cultural experts, and policymakers from across the continent and beyond to celebrate, protect and redefine what authenticity means for Africa’s rich and diverse heritage.
Culture, the Arts and Heritage Principal Secretary Ummi Basir said: “Africa is endowed with vast and vibrant cultural heritage that has, over time, been challenged by the forces of globalisation. Yet, this cultural wealth, if properly harnessed can drive social cohesion, foster identity, fuel creative economies, empower communities and inspire future generations.”
The conference will clarify heritage authenticity, integrity, conservation theory, and practice at all levels of the continent and contribute to the identification, documentation, protection, valorisation, and promotion of humanity’s heritage within and beyond the African continent.
As an output, the conference will contribute to the repositioning of heritage authenticity and integrity in theory and practice in an African context.
