Kenya’s ancient coastal city added to UNESCO World Heritage List

NAIROBI, July 27 (Xinhua) — The historic city of Gedi in Kenya’s coastal region has been inscribed on the World Heritage List by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) announced on Saturday.

According to the NMK, this recognition underlines the historical and cultural significance of Gedi and confirms the place’s position as an important part of Kenya’s rich heritage and scenic appeal.

“We are deeply honoured by this inscription, which emphasises the importance of preserving and promoting our cultural heritage,” said Mary Gikungu, director general of the NMK, in a statement released in the Kenyan capital Nairobi.

“The recognition of Gedi as a World Heritage Site not only elevates its status on the global stage, but also reaffirms our commitment to safeguarding our national treasures for future generations,” Gikungu added.

The archaeological site of Gedi, now in ruins, attracts hordes of tourists and anthropologists every year. It is a showcase of the Swahili culture that flourished along the Indian Ocean coastline from the 13th to the 17th centuries.

The ruins of Gedi comprise a series of stone houses, a palace and a mosque, nestled amongst lush indigenous forest. The site reflects the rich and refined architecture of the Swahili civilisation.

This designation is expected to revitalize conservation efforts at the historic site, providing new opportunities for sustainable tourism, research and international collaboration, NMK said. There will also be concerted efforts to enhance the visitor experience at the site through improved infrastructure, educational programs and community engagement initiatives.

According to the NMK, the eight World Heritage sites in Kenya include Lake Turkana National Park, Mount Kenya National Park/Nature Forest, the ancient city of Lamu, the sacred groves of Mijikenda Kaya, Fort Jesus, the Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley, the Thimlich Ohinga archaeological site in western Kenya and now the ruins of Gedi.

The historic city of Gedi in Kenya’s coastal region has been listed as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) announced on Saturday. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

The historic city of Gedi in Kenya’s coastal region has been listed as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) announced on Saturday. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

The historic town of Gedi in Kenya’s coastal region has been listed as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) announced on Saturday. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

This photo, taken on April 15, 2023, shows a view of the Gedi ruins in Kilifi County, Kenya.

The historic city of Gedi in Kenya’s coastal region has been listed as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) announced on Saturday. (Xinhua/Han Xu)