TZ recommits to protecting heritage sites

Arusha. Tanzania has reiterated its commitment to protect its world-acclaimed heritage sites.

The permanent secretary in the ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Mr Gaudence Milanzi, says they are preparing action plans to realise the goal.

These include proper management of the existing heritage sites, which range from the game parks to antique structures of archaeological and historical significance.

Mr Milanzi made the remarks in Istanbul, Turkey early this week when addressing the 40th World Heritage Committee meeting.

Tanzania is home to seven world heritage sites recognised by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) for their cultural and natural significance.

These are the Selous Game Reserve, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and other sites within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Zanzibar Stone Town, Kilwa Ruins and the Kondoa Rock Art.

Ngorongoro, the iconic site which draws hundreds of thousands of foreign tourists and local visitors each year, was the first to be inscribed in the World Heritage List in 1979.

“In preserving them, the sites have to promote social cohesion within and outside their borders using heritage values and gender equity aspect”, Gen. Milanzi said.

The country’s commitment to conservation of the heritage sites also have to fall in line with recently adopted Ngorongoro Declaration on Safeguarding African World Heritage as a driver of sustainable development.

The declaration was made during a conference held in Arusha early last month.

The Ngorongoro Declaration 2016 also recognizes the massive direct and opportunity costs affecting the rural population for the protection of the sites and the need to effectively mitigate the costs.

At the Istanbul conference, which coincided with the 10th commemoration of the anniversary of the African World Heritage Fund, Tanzania was lauded for her efforts in preserving its natural and cultural relics.