Tanzania, Japan affirm cooperation in conserving UNESCO’s World Heritage sites

BUSAN: TANZANIA and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in the conservation of World Heritage sites, cultural development and the implementation of sustainable development initiatives through UNESCO.

The commitment was made during a meeting between Tanzania’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Ambassador Saidi Yakubu, and Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Iwao Horii, held on the sidelines of the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, Republic of Korea, on July 22, 2026.

Mr Horii was accompanied by Japan’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Ambassador Takehiro Kano.

During the talks, the two sides discussed ways of expanding bilateral cooperation in safeguarding World Heritage sites, promoting cultural development and advancing UNESCO’s sustainable development agenda.

Ambassador Yakubu commended the Government of Japan for its continued support in preserving Tanzania’s cultural heritage, particularly through financing the restoration of the historic Majestic Cinema in Zanzibar.

He also praised Japan for its sustained support for World Heritage conservation projects across Africa, noting that the partnership has played a significant role in safeguarding the continent’s history, culture and heritage for present and future generations.

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The discussions further explored opportunities to strengthen collaboration through capacity-building programmes for heritage professionals, exchange of technical expertise and the implementation of joint projects aimed at promoting sustainable conservation and management of Tanzania’s World Heritage sites.

Ambassador Yakubu also invited Mr Horii to visit Tanzania to experience the country’s UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites and explore opportunities in culture, heritage conservation and cultural tourism.

The Tanzanian delegation included the Executive Secretary of the Tanzania National Commission for UNESCO, Prof Hamisi Malebo, and other senior government officials attending the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.