Benefitting country(ies): Mali
Overview:
Mali fell in a serious crisis following a coup d’état in January 2012, and the occupation of northern and east-central regions by armed groups and extremists. Cultural heritage has suffered tremendous damage. Cultural practices and expressions ranging from rituals, traditional music, festive events and craftsmanship were curtailed by the prohibitions imposed by the occupants. People had fear of being stigmatized or targeted of retributive attacks. The damage caused to the intangible heritage in a climate of fear and uncertainty has had a multiplier effect, profoundly affecting the feelings of identity of local communities across the country.
It is therefore urgent to ensure the safeguarding of the intangible heritage that plays an important role in the harmony and reconciliation within and between the communities and for coping with the post-conflict challenges. The project aims to contribute to the safeguarding of this heritage through inventories to assess its viability in the territory of Mali with a priority given to the region of north and central east. The project consists of activities to establish a strategic plan for inventory, to build capacities of the stakeholders and to raise awareness on the importance of the heritage. The results of inventory will be available to the communities and the public.
News and activities:
- 2015-02-12 – Financial assistance, a key mechanism for the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage in Africa
- 2014-09-05 – Capacity-building workshop on ICH community-based inventorying
- 2014-03-19 – Mali launches an inventory of intangible cultural heritage
- 2013-10-28 – UNESCO approves emergency funds for inventory of Mali’s intangible heritage
01/09/2013 - 01/12/2016 – Safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage through strengthening national capacities in Niger20/10/2016 - 20/10/2016 – Safeguarding of Enkipaata, Eunoto and Olng'esherr, three male rites of passage of the Maasai community