Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-03-01 08:05:00
The Gambia recently saw the adhesion of the UNESCO 1970 Convention Against the Illicit Traffic in Cultural Goods and the UNESCO 2001 Convention on the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage come into full force on the 10th of February 2024. This significant development was confirmed by reliable sources at UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
This move was a culmination of efforts that began in 2022 and culminated in late 2023 when The National Assembly unanimously passed both Conventions. The Minister of Tourism and Culture, Honourable Hamat N.K Bah, presented the Conventions to the NAMs, and in November 2023, during the UNESCO General Conference, the Minister, accompanied by the Director General of the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Mr. Hassoum Ceesay, and the Gambian Ambassador to Paris, His Excellency E.O Camara, submitted the Instruments of Ratification on behalf of President Adama Barrow.
In an interview with the Director General of NCAC, Hassoum Ceesay, it was revealed that The Gambia has now ratified five out of the six UNESCO Culture Conventions. The country is now setting its sights on ratifying the 1954 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of Cultural Property in Times of Armed Conflict. NCAC is working with various stakeholders, including the NAM Select Committee on Culture, the Ministry of Defence, Interior, The Gambia Red Cross, National Commission for UNESCO, and communities hosting heritage sites to raise awareness about the Convention before seeking ratification from the National Assembly.
Ceesay commended the strong support from the NAMs in ratifying culture Conventions and emphasized the importance of ratification in conserving, protecting, and promoting culture. By ratifying these Conventions, countries become part of a larger family and gain access to best practices, training, and conservation techniques. However, ratification also comes with responsibilities, such as fulfilling Periodic Reporting duties outlined in the Conventions.
NCAC has successfully submitted Periodic Reports for the 1972, 2003, and 2005 Conventions to UNESCO with support from various Gambian communities and the UNESCO Dakar Office. Currently, senior NCAC staff are in Cape Town, South Africa, attending the Mid-Term Review of the 1972 Convention, with The Gambia meeting all requirements for this stage. The country is also prepared to submit reports for the 1970 and 2001 Conventions when they are due.
In conclusion, The Gambia’s ratification of these UNESCO Culture Conventions marks a significant step towards conserving and protecting its cultural heritage. The strong support from stakeholders and the commitment of NCAC underline the country’s dedication to preserving its rich cultural legacy for future generations.
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