Advancements in the Preparations for International Conference on Heritage Authenticity in Africa

Redefining Authenticity Through African Perspectives – Advancements in the Preparations for International Conference on Heritage Authenticity in Africa

The African World Heritage Fund (AWHF), in collaboration with UNESCO and the Government of the Republic of Kenya, proudly hosted the Preparatory Meeting of the Scientific Committee between  8 -10 April, for the upcoming International Conference on Heritage in Africa: A Dialogue on the Concept of Authenticity, held in Nairobi, Kenya.

This pivotal gathering brought together leading minds and institutions committed to transforming the global heritage narrative through an African lens. The meeting began with thought-provoking opening remarks from Prof. George Abungu, Chair of the Scientific Committee, setting the tone for in-depth discussions on authenticity, identity, and governance of heritage across the continent.

Bringing together leading scholars, cultural experts, and institutional representatives, the meeting served as a vital platform to shape a transformative heritage agenda centered on African worldviews. The gathering opened with powerful remarks from Professor George Abungu, Chair of the Scientific Committee, who set the tone for deep reflections on the meanings of authenticity, identity, and heritage governance across the continent. He was joined by H.E. Ambassador Peter Ngure, Permanent Delegate of Kenya to UNESCO, who emphasized the significance of Africa asserting its narrative in global heritage discourse.

Representatives from the AWHF, National Museums of Kenya, UNESCO, and various governmental and heritage institutions reaffirmed the urgency of defining African heritage not through external interpretations, but through Africa’s own values, experiences, and systems of knowledge.

A central theme of the meeting was the call to redefine authenticity in African terms—embracing oral traditions, spiritual dimensions, community knowledge, and the evolving nature of lived heritage.

In her address, Hon. Umi Bashir, Principal Secretary of the State Department of Culture, emphasized that African heritage is not static or solely material—it is dynamic, lived, and remembered. In his opening address, the AWHF’s Executive Director, Dr. Albino Jopela, underlined the significance of the background document prepared for the conference, which serves as a strategic framework for reshaping how African heritage is safeguarded and promoted globally.

The Scientific Committee, comprising African scholars, cultural and natural heritage experts and policymakers, engaged in critical dialogue aimed at delivering two core outputs:

• A Draft Declaration
• A Recommendations Document

These documents are intended to inform revisions to the World Heritage Operational Guidelines, ensuring Africa’s heritage systems and voices are effectively reflected and respected.

Preparations are now in full swing for the main International Conference on Heritage in Africa, which will take place from 5–9 May 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya. The conference is expected to welcome over 800 participants from around the world, including more than 30 State Parties.

Read more about the International Conference on Heritage Authenticity in Africa – Click Here

A major highlight of the conference will be the official opening by H.E. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, who will also preside over the launch of the Nairobi Recommendation Document—a milestone that aims to reshape global understanding of heritage authenticity from an African perspective.

Through this collaborative effort, the African World Heritage Fund, is  proud to be part of this  historic moment for African heritage. Together are paving the way for a future where Africa’s heritage is recognized, protected, and celebrated on its own terms, contributing meaningfully to global heritage frameworks.

Stay connected with AWHF as we continue to champion Africa’s heritage and sustainable development.