By Adama Makasuba
The Gambian government has been called upon to safeguard the country’s rich cultural heritage, which would enhance its struggling economy and combat rising unemployment levels.
Development partners made this appeal during a significant cultural heritage gathering organized by the Heritage Management Project for The Gambia, which aims to integrate arts, culture, and tourism into heritage preservation efforts.
In his remarks, Evangelos Kyriakidis, Director of the Heritage Management Project for The Gambia, underscored the government’s need to proactively protect the nation’s cultural heritage and elevate it to a national emblem. He stated, “The government, civil society, and the private sector must collaborate to safeguard Gambia’s cultural heritage and establish it as a cornerstone of our national identity.”
Abdou Jobe, the Minister of Tourism and Culture, also addressed attendees, assuring them of the government’s dedication to incorporating cultural heritage into a comprehensive economic and tourism development strategy. He described the country’s cultural heritage as fundamental to “our identity and a key driver of national development.”
Furthermore, Mrs. Enrica Pellacani, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation in The Gambia, emphasized that protecting cultural heritage sites and museums would not only attract more tourists but also stimulate economic growth in the arts and hospitality sectors.
