How Covid-19 Caused Real Damage to African Heritage Sites Africa Mali
, a recent report by UNESCO reveals that world heritage properties in Africa have suffered economic consequences as a result of the pandemic, with 52% of them reporting Covid-related threats in 2021, including looting and insufficient resources for preservation.
The pandemic has also severely affected the travel and tourism industry in Africa, with international tourist arrivals dropping by 97% in 2020 compared to the previous year. By 2021, these numbers were still 73% lower than pre-pandemic levels. The travel and tourism sector in Africa has lost U.S.$85.9 billion and 5.8 million jobs, making it the hardest-hit region globally.
The increased looting of world heritage sites during lockdowns has only added to the pain. Djenné-Djenno, one of the oldest cities in Africa, inhabited since 250 BC, has been heavily impacted by illegal excavations and the theft of statues and other artifacts. The pandemic has thus wrought real damage to African heritage, threatening to erase significant cultural and historical landmarks. Without adequate resources and support, it will be challenging to preserve these sites and ensure that they remain a testament to Africa's rich and diverse cultural heritage.The Conversation Africa, 15 March 2023
The Covid-19 pandemic will long be remembered for the lockdowns it imposed and the millions of lives it stole, particularly among the elderly. A recent Unesco report shows that it…
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