AFIDFF Concludes Successful UNESCO World Heritage Volunteers Initiative at Sukur Cultural Landscape

The African International Documentary Festival Foundation (AFIDFF), together with its partner organizations—the Adamawa State Government through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM), Federal Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy (FMACCE), Nigerian Red Cross Society, American University of Nigeria (AUN), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), National Troupe of Nigeria (NTN), National Council for Art and Culture (NCAC), Sukur Students Association, and the Saleh Kinjir Foundation—successfully concluded its 2024 UNESCO World Heritage Volunteers (WHV) program. Held from November 14 to 20, 2024, at the Sukur Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the program was themed: "Sukur Echoes: Educate, Empower, Preserve (SEEEP)."

The 2024 WHV program at Sukur Cultural Landscape mobilized volunteers in a global campaign to preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage while fostering community empowerment. The program aligned with the objectives of the 1972 Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. This impactful initiative brought together over 50 dedicated volunteers and numerous partner organizations to achieve remarkable outcomes.

The Sukur Cultural Landscape, Nigeria was selected by UNESCO among other 90 action camp projects across the globe to be implemented from April to December 2024. These projects took place at 85 World Heritage properties and sites on the Tentative Lists, managed by 69 organizations across 41 countries globally

Sukur is located in Madagali local government area of Adamawa state of Nigeria along Nigeria/ Cameroon border, some 290 km from Yola, the Adamawa state capital of north eastern Nigeria. It is a hilltop settlement which stood at an elevation of 1045 m. The total land area covered by the site is 1942.50 ha with core zone having 764.40 ha and the buffer zone 1178.10 ha respectively. Sukur is an ancient settlement with a recorded history of iron smelting technology, flourishing trade, and strong political institution dating back to the 16th century.

The landscape is characterized by terraces on the farmlands, dry stone structures and stone paved walkways. The terraced landscape at Sukur with its hierarchical structure and combination of intensive and extensive farming is remarkable. in addition, it has certain exceptional features that are not to be found elsewhere, notably the use of paved tracks and the spiritual content of the terraces, with their ritual features such as sacred trees.

A key highlight of the program was the celebration of World Tourism Day at Sukur, marked by the unveiling of the National Stamp of Sukur. This historic milestone, championed by AFIDFF since 2021, underscores the importance of preserving Nigeria’s cultural legacy. The stamp symbolizes Sukur’s unique identity and promotes awareness of its global significance.

Outcomes of the Initiative

Participants engaged in a series of activities aimed at enhancing conservation, cultural preservation, and community empowerment:

1. Community Engagement: Volunteers and stakeholders were formally introduced to the District Head, the Hidi in Council, and the local community. This engagement fostered trust and strengthened the collective commitment to preserving the Sukur Cultural Landscape.
2. Environmental Tour: Led by Mr. Shan, the heritage site manager, an educational tour highlighted Sukur’s historical and cultural significance, emphasizing the need for environmental preservation.
3. Restoration of Dry-Stone Walls: Volunteers reconstructed Sukur’s iconic dry-stone walls using traditional techniques, ensuring structural integrity and authenticity.
4. Iron Smelting Workshops: Participants explored Sukur’s ancient iron smelting craft, learning about kiln and furnace preparation and the production of tools. This activity showcased Sukur’s advanced historical craftsmanship.
5. Cultural Practices and Traditional Architecture: Volunteers engaged in basketry and pottery-making while gaining hands-on experience in traditional construction techniques. These activities preserved Sukur’s intangible cultural heritage and architectural traditions.

Youth and Educational Empowerment 

Over 43 Sukur youths were trained in sustainable development, cultural heritage preservation, and environmental conservation, equipping them with essential skills for long-term sustainability. Local teachers participated in workshops facilitated by the American University of Nigeria (AUN), gaining comprehensive training and educational resources to enhance their teaching practices and promote conservation awareness.

• Sustainable Development: Participants acquired skills to implement sustainable practices and develop income-generating activities, thereby enhancing community resilience.
• Cultural Heritage Preservation: Increased awareness and collaboration among participants and local youths led to actionable plans for protecting and promoting Sukur's cultural heritage.
• Environmental Conservation: Training sessions highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship, encouraging sustainable practices and fostering partnerships for effective conservation.
• Cultural Celebrations: The program featured guided environmental tours, cultural performances, and storytelling sessions that showcased the vibrancy and significance of Sukur’s traditions.

AFIDFF expresses its gratitude to all volunteers, partners, and supporters whose commitment made this initiative possible. Through collective action, the WHV program not only strengthened conservation efforts but also deepened engagement with local communities, empowering them to become active guardians of their cultural and natural heritage.

To the people of the local communities, we deeply appreciate your warm welcome, cooperation, and shared commitment to the conservation of your natural heritage. Your support during the community engagement sessions and practical activities has been inspiring and pivotal to achieving the initiative’s objectives.

The 2024 WHV program at Sukur Cultural Landscape exemplifies AFIDFF’s commitment to fostering sustainable conservation and empowering local communities. The program leaves a lasting legacy of preservation and empowerment by celebrating Sukur’s heritage and equipping participants with essential skills. AFIDFF and its partners remain steadfast in advancing these goals, ensuring Sukur’s cultural and natural heritage continues to inspire future generations.

Malame N. Mangza
Program Coordinator,
WHV Sukur Cultural Landscape