Tanzania has strengthened its profile in global heritage conservation after Rose Kinabo represented the country at the 2026 UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum, held alongside the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea.
Kinabo's participation came after she was selected through a competitive process involving young professionals from 29 countries, earning recognition from Tanzania's Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Ambassador Saidi Yakubu, who met her on the sidelines of the forum.
Speaking during the meeting, Ambassador Yakubu said Kinabo's selection reflects the growing capacity of Tanzanian professionals to contribute to international dialogue on the conservation, management and sustainable use of World Heritage sites.
"Her participation demonstrates that Tanzania has a new generation of experts capable of engaging in global discussions on heritage conservation and sustainable development," he said.
Kinabo, an Assistant Lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam and a specialist in community-based heritage management, presented Tanzania's experience in participatory management of World Heritage sites.
She also highlighted the role of higher learning institutions in equipping communities and young professionals with the knowledge needed to safeguard cultural and natural heritage.
Her presentation aligned with this year's forum theme, "World Heritage, Communities and Education: Empowering Youth as Agents of Change."
Ambassador Yakubu said Tanzania's continued participation in UNESCO youth platforms provides an opportunity to strengthen the country's contribution to international heritage policy while expanding partnerships in research, innovation and professional capacity building.
He said the government remains committed to supporting young Tanzanians to participate in international forums, noting that youth play an important role in advancing heritage conservation and sustainable development through education, culture and innovation.
The meeting was also attended by the Executive Secretary of the Tanzania National Commission for UNESCO, Prof Hamisi Malebo, together with other senior members of the Tanzanian delegation attending the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee.
Kinabo's contribution has formed part of the development of the UNESCO Youth Declaration on World Heritage, which will be presented to the World Heritage Committee.
Her participation underscores Tanzania's efforts to promote youth leadership and expertise in heritage conservation while strengthening the country's engagement in international cultural and educational cooperation.
