Acknowledging the importance of heritage in the African continent as a lever for education, local pride and sustainable economic development, the Heritage Management Organization signed a MOU with the Economic Commission for Africa to support actions in multiple fronts for the entire continent.

The continent of Africa and the building of capacity for heritage organizations to its unique cultural heritage have been strategic priorities for our organization. Our work with UNECA is building on the strengths of the “Heritage Management Project (HerMaP) Gambia”, a EUROPEAID funded international project, with the aim to develop the skills of heritage and cultural managers working for state and civil society organizations of The Gambia, outside of the capital Banjul, aiming to establish and support heritage and cultural enterprises that result in greater community solidarity. The Institution building of heritage organizations is seen both by UNECA and HERITΛGE as a great step not only towards sustainable development but also towards strengthening democracy.

Established by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations (UN) in 1958 as one of the UN’s five regional commissions, ECA’s mandate is to promote the economic and social development of its member States, foster intra-regional integration, and promote international cooperation for Africa’s development.

Made up of 54 member States, and playing a dual role as a regional arm of the UN and as a key component of the African institutional landscape, ECA is well positioned to make unique contributions to address the Continent’s development challenges.