By Bernard Gitau @benagitau
The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi has been officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, making it Kenya’s eighth World Heritage Site. This accolade highlights the significance of Gedi’s historical and cultural value.
Dr. Fredrick Manthi, Director of Antiquities, Sites and Monuments, commented, “The inscription of Gedi underscores the National Museums of Kenya’s commitment to conserving and promoting Kenya’s heritage for posterity. This recognition underscores the historical and cultural significance of Gedi, solidifying its place as a vital part of Kenya’s rich heritage.”
Situated in Kenya’s coastal region, Gedi offers a glimpse into Swahili culture from the 13th to 17th centuries. The site features stone houses, a palace, and a mosque within a lush forest, reflecting the sophisticated architecture and urban planning of the Swahili civilization.
Prof. Mary Gikungu, Director-General of the National Museums of Kenya, expressed, “We are deeply honoured by this inscription, which highlights the importance of preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. The recognition of Gedi as a World Heritage Site not only elevates its status globally but also reaffirms our commitment to safeguarding our national treasures for future generations.”
The addition of Gedi follows a rigorous evaluation by the World Heritage Committee, which recognized its outstanding universal value. Professor Peter Ngure represented Kenya at the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, India, on July 27, 2024. He stated, “Thank you for giving Kenya the opportunity to present the Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi—a prominent Swahili city-state on the East African Coast. The property is an outstanding testimony to the social and economic structure of its 13th-century inhabitants.”
This new designation enhances conservation efforts and opens avenues for sustainable tourism, research, and international collaboration. The National Museums of Kenya, alongside local and international partners, will focus on preserving Gedi’s archaeological and biological integrity while improving visitor experiences through enhanced infrastructure and educational programs.
With Gedi’s inclusion, Kenya now boasts eight World Heritage Sites: Lake Turkana National Parks, Mount Kenya National Park and Forests, Lamu Old Town, Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests, Fort Jesus, Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley, Thimlich Ohinga Archaeological Site, and the Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi. This addition enriches Kenya’s cultural landscape and contributes to global understanding of Swahili history.