Category: History

** Saqqara: The incident of the ancestral statue **

Recently, the emblematic site of SAQQARA plunged into media turmoil following accusations of destruction of a 4,300 -year -old statue. While the videos of the archaeological discovery aroused enthusiasm and curiosity, the reaction of the Egyptians, anxious to preserve their heritage, was lively. Dr. Zahi Hawass, an emblematic figure of Egyptian archeology, tried to reassure the public, explaining that the extraction of the statue, although delicate, was crucial to enrich our historical understanding. This conflict highlights the challenges encountered by archaeologists between preservation and exploration, and underlines the importance of a constructive dialogue with the population on the way in which its cultural heritage is treated. Faced with this controversy, an opportunity emerges: that of strengthening the link between archeology and cultural identity of the Egyptians, by establishing a transparent communication around the challenges of the discipline.

### Language as an identity: a call for cultural preservation

In an increasingly globalized world, the “Wiki for Mother Tongue” campaign launched in Kinshasa by Wikilingula ASBL and CERISEPRODUCTION stands out as a crucial initiative for the safeguard of African languages. On the occasion of the 25ᵉ anniversary of International Language Day, this event invites us to reflect on the role of languages ​​in the preservation of cultural identities.

While nearly 7,000 languages ​​go out at an alarming rate, the campaign highlights the importance of a digital presence to revitalize these languages. Thanks to workshops and conferences, concrete tools are offered to encourage young people to enhance their inheritance while registering in modernity.

With the ambition to build an inclusive digital future, “Wiki for Mother Tongue” is not only a call for action, but a cry of the heart so that each voice, each language, finds its place in the concert of ‘humanity. By allowing mother tongues to emerge on digital platforms, this pave initiative for a future where cultural diversity is not only recognized but celebrated.

** Port-Bouët: a decisive turning point for Côte d’Ivoire **

On February 20, 2024, the return of the Port-Bouët military base to the Ivorian authorities will mark an important milestone in the history of Franco-Ivorian relations. Beyond the simple transition of sovereignty, this event symbolizes the desire of Côte d’Ivoire to assert its autonomy and to rethink its alliances on the international scene. The basis, anchored in colonial history, now embodies the hope of a reinforced national defense, with a strongly increased military budget, a reflection of a desire to move towards partnerships focused on regional cooperation.

This act testifies to the commitment of Côte d’Ivoire to build independent alliances, while being part of a broader movement of African integration in the face of contemporary challenges. While the country redefines itself, the restitution of Port-Bouët calls for a reflection on the future of the continent, states a need for autonomy with regard to external powers and places lasting peace at the center of priorities. In this new chapter, Port-Bouët becomes the symbol of an Ivory Coast ready to take up the challenges of tomorrow.

**The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization: Egypt’s Cultural Future Emerges**

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) has established itself as a pillar of Egypt’s cultural landscape, posting impressive financial results since its opening in April 2021. Its director, Al-Tayyeb Abbas, highlighted this momentum during a recent meeting, presenting strategies combining innovation and community engagement.

The NMEC has succeeded in attracting a diverse audience thanks to a rich artistic program and technological partnerships, notably with Meta, to integrate immersive experiences. This modern approach is accompanied by a desire to promote Egypt’s cultural heritage as a whole, by offering attractive tourist packages.

Nevertheless, the museum faces challenges, between growing competition and the need for optimal management of its resources. As it redoubles its efforts to cement its place in the cultural economy, the NMEC could redefine the way museums interact with their audiences, combining tradition and modernity in a quest for accessibility. With such aspirations, Egypt has all the cards in hand to become a sought-after destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

**Mosul and the Al-Hadba Minaret: A Renewal at the Heart of Cultural Resilience**

The recent restoration of the Al-Hadba Minaret in Mosul symbolizes a renaissance that goes far beyond simple architectural rehabilitation. This monument, destroyed by the Islamic State in 2014, embodies the struggle of the Iraqi population to preserve its heritage and identity after years of conflict. Its rehabilitation, the result of a collective effort combining local artisans and international actors, testifies to the determination of the Mosulians to rebuild. In a way, the leaning minaret becomes a metaphor for hope, reminding us that even in the midst of adversity, communities can reinvent themselves. This renaissance also has economic repercussions, with the potential to revitalize tourism, making Mosul a source of inspiration for those who aspire to transform the scars of the past into a promising future.

### Yalta: A turning point that redrew the world map

Eighty years ago, the Yalta Conference sealed decisive agreements, bringing together Churchill, Roosevelt and Stalin on the Black Sea. Much more than a simple diplomatic act, this event revealed the deep tensions of a Europe in ruins, marked by opposing ideologies and rival ambitions. Through agreements tinged with unfulfilled promises, such as the situation in Poland, Yalta drew up a new world order while preparing the ground for the Cold War.

If the partition of Germany and the new Polish borders illustrate an unprecedented reorganization, the millions of displaced people that resulted raise the crucial question of the human consequences of political decisions. What followed, with the Potsdam Conference and the creation of the United Nations, testifies to the evolution of the balance of power, exacerbated by the death of Roosevelt and the intransigence of Truman.

Today, as we reflect on the legacy of Yalta, it is essential to consider not only its apparent successes but also the contradictions and tensions it engendered. The memory of this meeting pushes us to question the foundations of peace and power, through the prism of the aspirations of peoples in the face of international games. A complex legacy that resonates with the current events of a world still in search of balance.

**Rediscovering Malcolm de Chazal: The Misunderstood Voice of Mauritius**

In his posthumous work *Demi-confidences*, Malcolm de Chazal offers us not only an intimate glimpse of his life, but also a profound reflection on the literary experience of marginalized voices. Originally from Mauritius, he navigates between colonialism and innovation, seeking to transcend the geographical and cultural boundaries that have often consigned his work to oblivion. His poetry, rooted in a “literary ecology”, mixes Mauritian landscapes and mythology, while proposing a dialogue with other island writers such as Pablo Neruda and Édouard Glissant.

While the critical reception of Chazal remains disappointing, his work engages an essential questioning on the visibility of writers from distant realities. *Demi-confidences* presents itself as a call to rediscover this unique, often misunderstood voice that deserves to be celebrated and that, paradoxically, enriches our understanding of contemporary creativity. By reviving Chazal’s work, we honor not only his legacy, but also the rich and diverse horizon of world literature.

**The Red and the Black: A Revelation on Cameroonian Decolonization**

On January 28, 2025, a poignant report, led by Karine Ramondy, sheds new light on the violence and invisible struggles of decolonization in Cameroon. This masterful document of more than a thousand pages not only invites us to rethink the French colonial past, but also attacks the silence surrounding the tragedies suffered by emblematic figures such as Ruben Um Nyobé and Félix Moumié. By comparing the atrocious realities of this period with other decolonial struggles in Africa, the report highlights recurring patterns of violence and impunity.

This essential work questions Cameroonian national identity, revealing the scars left by the struggle for independence and their impact on current generations. Beyond a simple historical analysis, it encourages a cultural and artistic dialogue on collective memory, while calling for a necessary reconciliation between France and Cameroon. The lessons of this painful chapter could shed light on contemporary conflicts, making this report a real catalyst for change and mutual understanding. A reflection on the past to better envisage the future.

**Luxor: Banks of History and Modern Ambitions**

Luxor, now crowned the First World Capital of Culture, History and Heritage by the Asian-African Union, is positioning itself as a model for cultural preservation and sustainable development. Rivaling metropolises like Kyoto, this Egyptian city, a veritable open-air museum, is committed to harmonizing historical heritage and modernity. With iconic sites such as the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Karnak, Luxor is not just a tourist destination, but a living example of a city that aspires to grow while remaining true to its roots. Through sustainable initiatives, it could inspire other developing cities to chart a balanced path, combining economic prosperity and the protection of cultural treasures. Luxor’s future will depend on its ability to navigate these challenges, and its recent distinction opens the door to a future where heritage and innovation come together to shine together.

### Louvre Museum Reform: A New Era of Culture

Last week, Emmanuel Macron unveiled a series of ambitious reforms aimed at transforming the cultural experience of the Louvre Museum, an icon of French heritage. Faced with the massive influx of visitors, the president is proposing to move the Mona Lisa to an independent space, aiming to enrich the visitor experience while ensuring the protection of this iconic work. This initiative is part of a broader strategy, seeking to balance accessibility and preservation in the museum world, inspired by international examples. Beyond the logistical aspects, these changes pave the way for a redefinition of France’s cultural priorities, with the hope that the Louvre will become a model of sustainability for other institutions. In short, these reforms are much more than a response to current challenges; they outline the contours of a future where art and culture can flourish in a respectful and immersive setting.