Tanzania and Japan are moving to deepen cooperation in protecting cultural heritage, strengthening expertise and promoting sustainable management of World Heritage sites through UNESCO frameworks.
The commitment was reached during a meeting between Tanzania’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Saidi Yakubu, and Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Iwao Horii, held on the sidelines of the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea.
The talks, also attended by Japan’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Takehiro Kano, focused on expanding collaboration in heritage conservation, cultural development and the use of culture as a driver of sustainable development.
Ambassador Yakubu acknowledged Japan’s contribution to Tanzania’s heritage preservation efforts, particularly its support for the rehabilitation of the historic Majestic Cinema in Zanzibar.
He said Japan’s continued backing of heritage conservation initiatives in Africa has played an important role in protecting cultural assets with global significance.
The two countries also discussed opportunities for technical cooperation, including training programmes for heritage professionals, exchange of expertise and implementation of joint initiatives aimed at improving the preservation and management of Tanzania’s World Heritage sites.
“Tanzania values its partnership with Japan in safeguarding heritage and promoting cultural development. Continued cooperation will help strengthen local capacity and ensure that heritage sites remain protected for future generations,” Ambassador Yakubu said.
He invited Minister Horii to visit Tanzania and experience the country’s UNESCO-recognised heritage sites, while exploring further opportunities in cultural tourism and heritage-based development.
The Tanzanian delegation included the Executive Secretary of the Tanzania National Commission for UNESCO, Prof Hamisi Malebo, and other senior government officials participating in the 48th UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting.
The annual UNESCO session, which runs until July 29, is addressing global efforts to protect and sustainably manage World Heritage sites while enhancing international cooperation in preserving cultural and natural heritage.
Tanzania is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara ruins, and the Stone Town of Zanzibar, which continue to contribute to the country’s tourism and cultural identity.
