Kilifi's Gedi Ruins listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi in Watamu, Kilifi County, has been officially recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This significant announcement came during the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, currently being held in New Delhi, India, from July 21 to July 31, 2024.

Gedi Ruins, now the second site in Kilifi to receive this prestigious recognition after the sacred Mijikenda Kaya forests and the eighth in Kenya, was acknowledged for its immense historical and cultural value. The recognition followed the deliberations of 195 countries and over 2,500 delegates from across the continent.

Professor Peter Ngure, Kenya's Permanent Delegate to UNESCO and Ambassador to India, led the Kenyan delegation at the event.

He highlighted the importance of such international recognition for Kenya's cultural heritage sites.

“The inclusion of Gedi on the World Heritage List underscores its profound historical significance and will help in its preservation for future generations,” said Ngure.

June Chepkemei, CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), expressed great pride in this achievement.

Tourist destination

"The designation of Gedi as a World Heritage Site is a testament to its historical and cultural significance. This recognition will enhance Kenya’s appeal as a tourist destination and play a crucial role in preserving our diverse heritage," she stated.

A view of the ruins of Gedi in Kilifi County. The historic town of Gedi in the coastal region of Kenya has been inscribed on the World Heritage List by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO. (Photo:(Xinhua/Han Xu)

Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro shared his excitement about the announcement, stating, “This is a cause for great celebration. The recognition by 195 countries and over 2,500 delegates underscores the historical significance of the Gedi Ruins. We believe this inclusion will bring new opportunities to our tourism sector and highlight our dedication to preserving cultural sites.”

Governor Mung’aro also expressed gratitude towards the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) and the Kilifi Department of Gender, Culture, and Social Services for their pivotal roles in securing this recognition.

“This is a victory for Kilifi and all of Kenya. We are now proudly part of the global stage,” he added.

The addition of Gedi Ruins to the UNESCO World Heritage List signifies UNESCO’s recognition of the site’s substantial cultural, historical, and scientific importance.

Kenya is now home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Lamu Old Town, Mount Kenya National Park, the Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley, and the Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba National Reserves.

He stated this prestigious designation not only enhances the historical prestige of Gedi Ruins but also promises to boost tourism and preserve the rich cultural legacy of Kilifi County and Kenya as a whole.