Zambian Ministry Of Tourism Permanent Secretary Arrives In Busan For 48th Unesco World Heritage Committee Session

Busan, Republic of Korea, Monday, July 20, 2026

Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary Mr. Evans Muhanga, has arrived in Busan, Republic of Korea, to lead the Zambian delegation attending the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, being held from 19 to 29 July 2026.

Mr. MUHANGA is heading a multi-sectoral delegation comprising officials from the National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC), the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA), Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) and the Zambian Embassy in Seoul, reflecting Zambia's continued commitment to the protection, conservation and promotion of its rich cultural and natural heritage.

The 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee has brought together representatives of States Parties, international heritage experts, advisory bodies and development partners from across the globe to deliberate on matters relating to the implementation of the 1972 World Heritage Convention. During the ten-day meeting, the Committee will consider a wide range of issues, including reports on the activities of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, implementation of previous Committee decisions, capacity-building initiatives, the state of conservation of World Heritage properties, progress in implementing the World Heritage Strategy for Africa and reports concerning Small Island Developing States.

The Delegates will also review conservation reports for properties on both the World Heritage List and the List of World Heritage in Danger. The Committee will further examine nominations for inscription on the World Heritage List, review States Parties' Tentative Lists, consider requests for international assistance, deliberate on revisions to the Operational Guidelines for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention and review matters relating to periodic reporting and regional action plans before concluding with the adoption of decisions and preparations for the 49th Session of the Committee.

Mr. MUHANGA’s attendance of the Session reaffirms Zambia's commitment to safeguarding its heritage resources and strengthening international cooperation for present and future generations. The Session presents an important opportunity to delegates to share experiences, learn from other nations, strengthen partnerships and contribute to global decisions that shape the future of World Heritage conservation. Zambia is expected to actively participate in the deliberations while showcasing the country's commitment to sustainable heritage management.

The country's participation also provides an opportunity to engage with international partners in advancing conservation initiatives, promoting capacity building and supporting efforts aimed at increasing the recognition of Zambia's heritage resources on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Zambian delegation will also participate in side events, technical consultations and bilateral meetings aimed at strengthening cooperation in heritage conservation, sustainable tourism development and the protection of sites of Outstanding Universal Value.

Issued by:

Ndubi Mvula, Manager Information and Public Relations

National Heritage Conservation Commission