Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, says the launch of the Sankofa II Project comes at a crucial period in Ghana’s efforts to protect and preserve its cultural and historical heritage.
Speaking at the launch of the project in Accra on Thursday, May 21, the Minister noted that the initiative arrives at a time, particularly as the country works to safeguard its World Heritage properties, including its historic forts and castles.
“The Sankofa II Project comes at a very critical moment in our collective efforts to safeguard Ghana’s World Heritage properties, particularly our forts and castles, which remain significant symbols of global history and memory,” she said.
According to her, concerns raised by a reactive monitoring team have identified issues requiring urgent intervention to preserve the outstanding universal value of the heritage sites.
She explained that the government remains committed to addressing the concerns and expressed confidence that Sankofa II would provide the needed support to tackle some of the challenges facing Ghana’s heritage sector.
“The Government of Ghana takes these concerns very seriously. We are therefore highly confident that the implementation of the Sankofa II Project will significantly contribute to addressing the various challenges identified and help prevent Ghana’s heritage sites from being placed on the endangered list of World Heritage Sites,” she stated.
The Minister stressed that the project extends beyond preserving monuments and historic structures, describing it as an initiative focused on protecting identity and empowering communities.
“This project is not only about conservation. It is about restoring dignity to our heritage, strengthening local capacities, empowering communities, and ensuring that future generations continue to appreciate the rich history and identity that define us as a people,” she added.
She also used the occasion to call for closer collaboration among stakeholders, urging the implementing team to work closely with the Ministry and the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board to ensure the smooth execution of the project.
According to her, sustained engagement, transparency and partnerships will be key to achieving the initiative’s objectives.
Dzifa Gomashie further expressed optimism that preserving Ghana’s heritage could create wider opportunities in sustainable tourism, education and socio-economic development.
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