Tanzania and UNESCO have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in the conservation and sustainable management of World Heritage sites, recognizing their growing importance in tourism development, cultural preservation and economic growth.
The commitment was made during a meeting between Tanzania's Ambassador to France and Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Ambassador Saidi Othman Yakubu, and the Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo, at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.
The talks focused on enhancing collaboration in the protection and management of Tanzania's World Heritage sites, while exploring opportunities for technical support, knowledge exchange and capacity building in the heritage sector.
Ambassador Yakubu said Tanzania remains committed to safeguarding its rich natural and cultural heritage, including sites inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
He noted that preserving these assets is essential not only for protecting the country's history and biodiversity but also for supporting tourism, creating economic opportunities and improving livelihoods in local communities.
He emphasized the importance of continued cooperation with UNESCO in ensuring that heritage sites are managed sustainably and continue to contribute to national development.
Mr. Assomo welcomed Tanzania's efforts in heritage conservation and reaffirmed UNESCO's readiness to strengthen its partnership with the country.
He said the organization would continue supporting initiatives aimed at protecting World Heritage sites for the benefit of current and future generations.
The meeting also reviewed preparations for upcoming World Heritage Committee sessions and discussed ways of increasing Africa's participation and representation in global heritage conservation frameworks.
Both sides agreed to deepen their collaboration and advance joint efforts aimed at protecting heritage resources while promoting sustainable development.
Tanzania is home to several internationally recognized World Heritage sites, including the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara and Selous Game Reserve, which continue to attract global attention for their outstanding cultural and natural value.
