Activities >> Communication

Networking/Promotion and Technical Assistance

Objective:

• To promote an active network for exchange of information and experiences.
• To better promote the immovable cultural heritage of Africa and also the AFRICA 2009 programme.
• To provide small equipment, books and advice to institutions in sub-Saharan Africa.
  

Results:

As in previous years, the most important method of networking has been bringing together professionals and directors at various courses, seminars, and meetings to provide a forum for exchange of information on the regional level. With the addition of new activities such as the technical course and the national seminars (which sometimes have sub-regional participation) the opportunities for networking are constantly increasing. The programme has also continued with a number of activities aimed at better networking and promotion.

• The AFRICA 2009 web site continues to be updated with information about the programme and its activities.
• The email distribution list continues to function as a means for dissemination of information on the programme and on other possible issues of interest to the network. The list currently has 452 addresses, a 77% increase over the past year.
• The database of past participants and others that are interested in the programme continues to be updated regularly.
• The third AFRICA 2009 Newsletter was published in June 2003 in both French and English and was distributed by mail and at AFRICA 2009 activities. It has also be placed on the web site. As in 2003, the programme used 2 members of the network, Goodman Gwasira (English) and Sekou Kobani Kourouma (French) as editors to help gather information from network members.
• The exhibition developed in 2001 continues to updated. This exhibit promotes both the AFRICA 2009 programme and immovable cultural heritage in Africa in general. In 2003 additional panels were created to highlight the heritage of Burkina Faso. The exhibit was displayed in Bobo Dioulasso to coincide with the Steering Committee meeting in December. The exhibition was also shown during the ICOMOS General Assembly in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. This venue gave the programme a good exposure at an international event of great importance for the field of conservation.
• Computers and other small equipment were provided for institutions in Mauritania, Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya.