Uganda Pushes for Greater Recognition of Africa’s Heritage at UNESCO Meeting

Uganda has called for greater global recognition of Africa’s cultural heritage after endorsing the Nairobi Outcome Document during the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea.

Presenting Uganda’s position on July 21, Ambassador and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO H.E. Doreen Ruth Amule said the Nairobi Outcome Document offers an opportunity to strengthen authenticity and integrity in heritage conservation while ensuring Africa’s cultural values are better reflected in the global heritage framework.

She praised the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for proposing the document’s implementation through institutionalisation and capacity building, saying the initiative would equip member states with stronger mechanisms to protect their cultural heritage.

Uganda observed that the Nairobi Outcome Document builds on the 1994 Nara Document on Authenticity and the 1964 Venice Charter, while providing a more inclusive approach to heritage conservation that reflects Africa’s historical and cultural realities.

The delegation said implementing the document would enhance international cooperation, strengthen technical expertise and empower local communities, particularly young people, to take an active role in preserving heritage for future generations.

Uganda also backed the commencement of the fourth cycle of periodic reporting under the World Heritage Convention and urged that engagement on the Nairobi Outcome Document be extended to heritage site managers to facilitate effective implementation at national and local levels.

The 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, running from July 19 to 29, 2026, has brought together representatives from across the world to discuss the protection and management of cultural and natural heritage sites. The meeting marks the first time South Korea has hosted the committee since joining the UNESCO World Heritage Convention in 1988.