Ghana’s Commitment to Heritage Conservation and Cultural Development
Ghana has made a strong statement regarding its dedication to the preservation and protection of its Forts and Castles World Heritage Property. This commitment was highlighted by the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, during her address at the ongoing 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris. The session, which began on July 7 and will conclude on July 17, provided an important platform for the country to showcase its efforts in safeguarding its cultural and historical landmarks.
During the event, the minister emphasized Ghana’s active collaboration with global heritage institutions. She outlined the nation’s ongoing initiatives aimed at ensuring the proper conservation of its heritage assets. These efforts reflect a broader strategy to maintain the integrity and significance of sites that hold immense historical value, particularly the Forts and Castles of Ghana.
Gomashie also expressed deep appreciation for the support received from UNESCO and other partner organizations such as ICCROM, ICOMOS, and IUCN. These entities have played a critical role in protecting Ghana’s World Heritage Sites. The minister specifically acknowledged the recent Reactive Monitoring mission conducted at the Forts and Castles, highlighting the government’s full commitment to implementing recommendations from past assessments.
The minister further underscored the importance of aligning tangible and intangible heritage in cultural development. She praised earlier draft decisions and reaffirmed Ghana’s alignment with international frameworks that promote sustainable heritage practices. This approach ensures that both physical and non-physical aspects of culture are preserved and celebrated.
A key component of Ghana’s cultural agenda is the Black Star Experience, a comprehensive initiative designed to elevate the country’s role in Africa’s cultural and creative industries. This project aims to provide a unique and immersive experience for visitors while promoting Ghana’s rich cultural heritage on a global scale.
Gomashie also noted that Ghana is actively implementing the 2030 indicators for culture as part of its national development framework. This step demonstrates the country’s long-term vision for integrating cultural policies into broader socio-economic strategies. By doing so, Ghana seeks to ensure that cultural heritage remains a central pillar of its development agenda.
The discussions at the World Heritage Committee session have reinforced the importance of international cooperation in heritage conservation. As countries share best practices and resources, they collectively contribute to the preservation of global cultural legacies. Ghana’s participation in these dialogues reflects its proactive stance in addressing challenges related to heritage management.
In addition to the Forts and Castles, Ghana is also focusing on the protection of other significant cultural sites. Efforts include community engagement, capacity building, and the integration of traditional knowledge into modern conservation practices. These measures aim to create a more inclusive and sustainable approach to heritage preservation.
As the 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee continues, Ghana’s contributions highlight the nation’s growing influence in global heritage discourse. The country’s commitment to preserving its cultural and historical assets serves as a model for others facing similar challenges. Through continued collaboration and innovation, Ghana is poised to play a leading role in the global effort to protect and promote cultural heritage.
