The preservation and recognition of world heritage are important issues for the safeguarding of our history, our culture and our environment. Every year, UNESCO classifies new sites which have exceptional value and deserve to be protected.
In 2022 and 2023, several sites have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. Among them, the Odzala Kokoua forest massif, located in the Republic of Congo. This site is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in Central Africa, and its preservation is essential for the conservation of biodiversity.
In Madagascar, the dry forests of Andrefana have also been recognized for their exceptional biodiversity. They are home to species of lizards and birds unique in the world, and their protection is crucial to preserve this extraordinary natural wealth.
UNESCO also classifies cultural landscapes, which are natural spaces closely linked to traditional ways of life. Among these sites, we find the Gedeo in Ethiopia, which brings together sacred forests and megalithic steles. The Bale Mountains National Park in Ethiopia was also added to the list.
Another extension was made to the Koutammakou site, located in northeastern Togo. This place, already classified since 2004, has been expanded to include the entire territory of the Batammariba population and their traditional tower houses, thus reflecting the importance of this unique way of life.
In Tunisia, the island of Djerba has been listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. This place, known for its heavenly beaches, offers much more than magnificent landscapes. Djerba is home to twenty-four monuments, including mosques, caravanserais and a Jewish quarter, testifying to the cultural diversity of the island and its harmonious coexistence.
This recognition of Djerba as a world heritage site strengthens its position as a tourist destination and highlights the economic and cultural potential of Tunisia.
Finally, the dry forests of western Madagascar have been included in the UNESCO world heritage list. These protected areas, stretching from the north to the south of the Big Island, are recognized for their exceptional fauna, flora and endemic habitats. However, these sites face many threats, such as fires, tree cutting and illegal trafficking. World heritage listing should highlight these delicate situations and mobilize support for their preservation.
In conclusion, the recognition of new UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2022 and 2023 underlines the importance of preserving our cultural and natural heritage. These sites are gems that deserve to be protected for future generations.