6th December 2023, Kasane – The 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee Meeting for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural (ICH) has officially opened in Kasane, Botswana.
The meeting was graced by the President of the Republic of Botswana, H.E. Dr. Mokgweetsi Masisi, and preceded by the opening ceremony, which was held on Sunday, December 3, 2023, at the iconic Kazungula Bridge.
In his remarks, President Masisi emphasized the importance of intangible cultural heritage as it forms a part of the core of social identity markers, adding that it is vital to protect and preserve cultural practices that enhance human dignity.
Zambia is among the 110 state parties participating at the meeting, having acceded on May 10, 2006, to the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the ICH, which mandates States Parties to promote and implement the core functions of the Convention.
The 18th Session of the UNESCO Intangible Heritage Committee is also celebrating the 20th anniversary of the UNESCO Convention, which has considerably increased the world’s legal arsenal for the protection of culture.
Mrs. Bessie Malilwe Chelemu, Director Culture and Traditional Affairs from the Ministry of Tourism, and Dr. Heather Munachonga, Secretary General of the Zambia National Commission for UNESCO, are leading the Zambian delegation to this 18th session of the ICH intergovernmental committee.
The 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage provides guidance on best safeguarding practices and aims to contribute to respect for the ICH and mutual respect among communities, which are central to safeguarding.
By attending sessions of the Committee, Zambia accesses first-hand understanding and contributes to the recognition by UNESCO of cultural elements such as traditional dances, social practices, rituals, and traditional festivals, including food practices.
So far, Zambia has five elements on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, namely: Gule Wamkulu, Makishi masquerade, Mooba dance, Budima dance, and Kalela dance.
Further, Zambia is better placed to encourage other countries to support the recognition of its elements, receive financial assistance from the UNESCO ICH fund, and contribute to the global dialogue on ICH safeguarding and related practices.
The 18th session is being chaired by H.E. Mr. Mustaq Moorad, Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of the Republic of Botswana to UNESCO. It will run from 3rd to 9th December, 2023.