The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has listed the Gedi Ruins in Kilifi County as a World Heritage Site.
In an announcement released on Saturday, UNESCO noted that the historical town would join the seven other sites that were declared heritage sites in previous years.
Gedi Ruins was recognised for its rich historical depictions of the culture of people at the Kenyan Coast.
In particular, the site is recognised for the building technology used during the construction of the facilities.
The origin of the historical site dates back to the 12th century and is gazetted as one of the country's national monuments. The property is currently under the care of the Kenya National Museums.
"Surrounded by a remnant coastal forest, away from the coastline, the abandoned city of Gedi was one of the most important Swahili cities on the East African coast from the 10th to 17th centuries. During this period, it was part of a complex and international network of trade and cultural exchanges that crossed the Indian Ocean, linking African coastal centres with Persia and other areas.
"The opulent settlement is clearly delineated by walls and features remains of domestic, religious, and civic architecture and a sophisticated water management system. It strongly represents the characteristics of Swahili architecture and town planning, utilising materials such as coral rag, coral and earth mortar and wood.
Significance of the listing:
- Through the identification of sites, UNESCO in partnership with the government and the local communities protect and preserve the sites.
- This also helps in passing generation knowledge and boosts tourism.
Following the announcement, Culture Principal Secretary Ummi Bashir noted that the recognition of the old site was a milestone for Kenya's culture and tourism sector.
"Good News. The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi has been officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
"This recognition highlights Gedi's cultural significance and rich history. This new inscription means Kenya now has 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, up from 7 since 2018. A big thank you to the Museums of Kenya team who were instrumental in this process," she stated.
Other sites in Kenya listed as heritage sites by UNESCO include Lake Turkana National Parks, Mount Kenya National Park/Natural Forest, Lamu Old Town, Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests, and Fort Jesu in Mombasa.
Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley and Thimlich Ohinga Archaeological Site in Migori County are also listed as Heritage Sites.
