The sites located in the subregion and inscribed on the World Heritage List all symbolize the richness and diversity of the West African history, culture and landscape; whether it is linked to the slave trade and history like the islands of Kunta Kinteh and Gorée; natural wonders and protected habitats such as the Air and Ténéré Natural Reserves; Cultural landscapes such as the Saloum Delta; or historical centers such as Cidade Velha.

The concept of World Heritage was defined by the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted in 1972 by the General Conference of UNESCO. It enshrines the idea that the heritage is considered to be of outstanding universal value (OUV), which means that it is of such cultural importance, that it is both invaluable and transcending national boundaries. This legacy from the past has therefore a value for all humankind and must bequeath to future generations. In the countries covered by the Dakar Office, a total of seventeen sites are inscribed on the World Heritage List, including one transboundary site shared by Senegal and The Gambia : Burkina Faso (1), Cabo Verde (1), The Gambia (2*), Guinea-Bissau, Mali (4), Niger (3) et Senegal (7*).

To “Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage” (SDG 11, target 11 .4) and to identify, protect and promote this heritage, UNESCO provides support to Member States through various financial and technical assistance mechanisms. Its work is thus focused on various activities, namely :

• Management and conservation of World Heritage Sites: the Office supports the development of tools to improve and ensure sustainability of the sites management. It includes, for instance, the production of “Management Plans”, “Site interpretation centers” or conservation measures and capacity building activities;
• Sites identification: the Office encourages sites identification, providing its support to the Member States in establishing “Tentative Lists” which identify natural and cultural sites for future appointments on the World Heritage List. The Office also assists the States in preparing the nomination files ;
• Promotion and enhancing the heritage: in order to make sure that sites are promoted and enhanced, UNESCO supports activities carried out by sub-regional States concerning the public awareness and the local communities’ participation in cultural and natural heritage preservation.

For example, Senegal is a pilot country in terms of heritage’s enhancement among mixed audiences. Indeed, since 2013, UNESCO and Senegal have committed to promoting its heritage through a travelling photography exhibition: “World Heritage in Senegal: 7 exceptional sites”; videos shootings; and the development of a mobile app entitled “VUE d’Afrique”.