Tanzania Calls for Greater Protection and Tourism Development at Kilwa Kisiwani World Heritage Site
Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and promoting the Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara Ruins in Lindi Region, following a site visit by the country's Ambassador to France and Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Saidi Othman Yakubu. The UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Site, which Ambassador Yakubu described as "not only Tanzania's heritage, but an important part of the history of Africa and the world," contains significant evidence of civilisation, trade and centuries-old connections between East Africa and the wider world.
During the visit, Ambassador Yakubu acknowledged the contributions of the United States Government, the World Monuments Fund and the Government of France in supporting conservation efforts, while calling for expanded international cooperation in research, infrastructure development and sustainable tourism. He highlighted the potential to develop new tourism products at Kilwa by linking the ruins' history with surrounding community culture, marine tourism and mangrove ecosystems along the coast. The ambassador also stressed that heritage conservation should generate direct economic benefits for local communities, positioning Kilwa as a source of education, tourism and development for current and future generations.
Source: Daily News Tanzania
