In keeping with the UNESCO Director-General’s policy of prioritizing African heritage, 5 new sites on the continent were inscribed on the World Heritage List:

Melka Kunture and Balchit, Ethiopia

This remarkable site houses essential archaeological and paleontological evidence, including stone tools and hominid fossils dating back several millennia. These discoveries provide valuable information about early human settlements in Africa.

The Royal Court of Tiébélé, Burkina Faso

Renowned for its traditional architecture and distinctive mural frescoes, the Royal Court of Tiébélé is a vibrant example of the artistic and architectural ingenuity of the Kassena people. This site is a precious representation of local cultures.

The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi, Kenya

A former prosperous Swahili urban center, Gedi testifies to the intense cultural and commercial exchanges between East Africa and other regions. Its remains include mosques, palaces, and stone residences, reflecting a flourishing era of transcontinental interactions.

Pleistocene Occupation Sites in South Africa

These sites, such as the Blombos and Sibudu caves, are treasures for the study of human evolution. They contain artifacts and structures that show advanced tool use and the earliest signs of symbolic thought.

The Nelson Mandela Heritage Sites, South Africa

These sites honor the legacy of Nelson Mandela and the struggle against apartheid. They include iconic places such as Robben Island, where Mandela was imprisoned, and buildings symbolizing the fight for freedom and equality.

This session of the Committee also led to the removal of Niokolo Koba National Park (Senegal) from the List of World Heritage in Danger, thanks to the joint efforts of Senegalese authorities and local communities, with the support of UNESCO, to mitigate the threats to the site.

Kenya has announced its intention to host an international conference in Nairobi in May 2025, which will allow for a deeper reflection on the concept of authenticity in Africa and the enhancement of the representation of African sites on the World Heritage List.

These new inscriptions strengthen our commitment to protecting Africa's cultural and natural heritage. They are a recognition of the global importance of these sites, not only for their historical and cultural value but also for their educational and inspirational role for future generations. We invite you to explore these unique sites and support our efforts for their conservation.