In a significant development for global conservation, UNESCO's World Heritage Committee removed three African sites from the List of World Heritage in Danger during its 47th session in Paris on July 9, 2025.
This decision recognizes successful conservation efforts by Madagascar, Egypt, and Libya. These initiatives mitigated threats and restored the cultural and ecological integrity of the sites.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay highlighted the importance of this achievement, calling it a victory for the countries, communities, UNESCO, and shared human heritage.
The Rainforests of the Atsinanana in Madagascar, inscribed in 2007, faced threats like illegal logging and deforestation. Madagascar, with UNESCO's support, implemented a plan including management strategies and patrols.
These efforts restored 63% of lost forest cover and reduced illegal activities. Abu Mena in Egypt, a Christian pilgrimage site inscribed in 1979, was endangered by rising groundwater.
Egypt initiated a project in 2021 using solar-powered drainage systems, stabilizing the site. The Old Town of Ghadamès in Libya, a cultural crossroads inscribed in 1986, was endangered by instability.
Extensive restoration, including repairs and infrastructure improvements, was carried out. The List of World Heritage in Danger highlights sites facing serious threats, mobilizing international efforts for their protection.
Delisting these sites underscores the positive impact of conservation efforts. The international community is committed to securing the future of these assets through cooperation with African member states.