UNESCO WHV Initiative 2024:

About the Sukur Cultural Heritage Project

The Action camp at Sukur Cultural Landscape is part of the World Heritage Volunteers Initiative, aimed at protecting, preserving and promoting cultural heritage sites. The program seeks to raise awareness and enhance youth involvement both locally and globally in implementing the 1972 Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. UNESCO has selected Sukur Cultural Landscape, located on a hill above the village of Sukur in the Adamawa State of Nigeria. It is situated in the Mandara Mountains, close to the border with Cameroon. Sukur is Africa’s first cultural landscape to receive a World Heritage List inscription. Sukur Cultural Landscape is selected among the 90 action camp projects to be implemented from April to December 2024. These projects will take place at 85 World Heritage properties and sites on the Tentative Lists, managed by 69 organizations across 41 countries globally. With the theme: "Sukur Echoes: Educate, Empower, preserve (SEEEP).

Project Goal

The project aims at raising awareness of the site’s significance, transmitting traditional skills to youth, fostering collaboration among different stakeholders, strengthening cultural and environmental resilience, promoting economic self-sufficiency, providing research materials, and advocating for gender equality.

Project Activities

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the World Heritage Education Programme, the WHV 2024 projects will engage young people, communities, and site managers in creating new, inclusive societies where World Heritage serves as a source of resilience, humanity, and innovation. National and international volunteers will collaborate with local communities through practical hands-on activities and awareness-raising efforts to preserve and protect the Landscape.

The hands-on activities in the Action Camp include the methodological study of Sukur traditional architecture mostly composed of dry-stone walls, wood, straw, and thatched roof, Participants will also learn techniques in the production of iron tools, production of artisanal handcrafts, and the maintenance of stonewalls and mountain trails. Basketry, pottery, calabash making, and label designing, the participants will also organize and take part in different awareness-raising actions, from hiking on the mountain, to musical evenings, and performing arts. Volunteers will also participate in creating a documentary showcasing all the activities conducted during the camp. Volunteers will focus on addressing traditional system needs, including architecture, crafts, and restoration projects. Volunteers will study Sukur vernacular architecture, particularly the construction of circular huts with termite-resistant foundations. They will also revive traditional iron works and handicrafts, working with local guilds. These activities aim to enhance global awareness and market Sukur products internationally, benefiting the local ecotourism economy.

About the Sukur Cultural Landscape, Nigeria: Cultural property inscribed on the World Heritage List (1999)

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.

Involvement of International Volunteers:

International volunteers will act as ambassadors for Sukur World heritage site to promote environmental stewardship and heritage preservation.

Skills Learned by Volunteers: Teamwork, cultural awareness, environmental education, project management, resilience, fieldwork, and research skills.

Volunteer Role

• Preservation Activities: Engaging in hands-on tasks such as maintaining and restoring dry-stone walls, wood structures, straw roofs, and mountain trails to preserve the traditional architecture and landscape of Sukur.
• Cultural Heritage Education: Learning and applying traditional techniques in producing iron tools, crafting artisanal handcrafts, and creating items like baskets, pottery, and calabashes.
• Awareness-Raising: Organizing and participating in activities to raise awareness about the importance of cultural heritage preservation, including hiking, musical evenings, and performing arts.
• Community Engagement: Collaborating with local communities to strengthen the cultural bonds and enhance the understanding and appreciation of Sukur's heritage.
• Documentation and Promotion: Assisting in the production of a documentary and that highlights the activities performed during the initiative and promotes the Sukur Cultural Landscape.
• Innovation and Education: Contributing to innovative projects and educational workshops aimed at fostering resilience and sustainability within the community

Volunteer Benefits:

• Cultural Immersion: Volunteers get the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Sukur people, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of their traditions and history.
• Meeting with the Hidi (Chief-in-Council) of Sukur Kingdom, the coveted throne that has been sustained for over 600years
• Hands-On Experience: Engaging in preservation activities provides practical experience in traditional architecture, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage conservation techniques.
• Skill Development: Participants can develop and enhance a range of skills, including project management, teamwork, leadership, and specific technical skills related to restoration and conservation.
• Community Engagement: Working closely with local communities fosters meaningful connections and cultural exchange, promoting mutual respect and understanding.
• Access to the Ancient Shrines and other anthropologically sensitive sites of history in the Sukur Kingdom and the surrounding communities.
• Engage with local culture and interact with indigenous communities.
• Strengthen ties and cooperation between organizations and agencies involved in the project.
• Hiking on the Madara mountain

Eligibilities

• Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit, but participants should be physically fit to meet the demands of the program.
• Volunteers must be available for the entire duration of the program, which typically lasts for 10 days
• Proficiency in English is required as it is the primary language of communication during the program.
• A genuine interest in conservation, wildlife protection, and cultural heritage is essential.
• The ability to work well in a team is crucial as volunteers will be collaborating with others in various activities.
• Volunteers must be in good physical health and able to participate in physically demanding activities such as hiking, camping, manual labor, and other outdoor tasks.
• Volunteers must provide a medical certificate confirming they are fit to participate in the program at the point of registration during the camp.
• Volunteers should disclose any allergies or chronic medical conditions that may affect their participation. Necessary medications and medical supplies should be brought by the volunteers.
• Comprehensive health insurance that covers international travel and activities in remote areas is mandatory for international volunteers

Eligible Regions - Open for All

Dates: October 6th to 17th, 2024,

Participant Fees:

• International Volunteers: $200 Excluding travel expenses.
• Local Volunteers: N35,000, Excluding travel expenses.

(The Participation fees include – Accommodation, food, materials for hands-on activities, and Local Transportation for the duration of the entire program)

NOTE: Spaces are limited to on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reference Link to UNESCO Website: https://whc.unesco.org/en/volunteers2024/

Registration Deadline: 31st July 2024

Together, let's preserve our heritage and empower communities!

Implementing Partners 2024

Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM) National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM); Adamawa State Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT), Adamawa State Agency for Museums and Monuments (ASAMM); Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy (FMACCE); Sukur Traditional Council, Sukur Development Association (SDA) and Sukur Students Association; Nigerian Red Cross Society ; Local/National Media: Television, Radio and Newspaper; Nigerian Tourism Development Authourity, American University of Nigeria (AUN) National Council for Art and Culture (NCAC) Sukur Youth Development Association (SYDA) National Association of Sukur Student (NASS) and Kinjir Foundation.

About the Gashaka Gumti National Park Project

The Action camp at Gashaka Gumti National Park and the Mambila Plateau is part of the World Heritage Volunteers Initiative, aimed at preserving and promoting cultural and natural heritage sites. The program seeks to raise awareness and enhance youth involvement both locally and globally in implementing the 1972 Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. UNESCO has selected Gashaka Gumti National Park, located in the northeastern provinces of Taraba and Adamawa states Nigeria, near the border with Cameroon, to be among the 90 action camp projects to be implemented from April to December 2024. These projects will take place at 85 World Heritage properties and sites on the Tentative Lists, managed by 69 organizations across 41 countries globally. With the 2024 theme: "Preserving Nature, Empowering Communities: Elevating Gashaka-Gumti National Park from tentative recognition to World Heritage Site status." 

Project Goal

The Gashaka Gumti National Park project aims to preserve and protect the national park's outstanding scenic, natural, scientific, recreational, and significant property values. It focuses on maintaining important wetlands and water catchment areas, exploring the linkage between nature, culture, and human activities, and documenting the park's attributes to produce a Nomination Dossier for UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription.

The Initiative seeks to raise awareness about World Heritage protection among young people, volunteers, communities, and authorities. It involves youth in preservation projects, empowers them with skills in conservation, and strengthens cooperation between nonprofits, site management, and communities. It identifies best practices, develops educational tools, and ensures gender equality and geographical diversity in its projects.

Project Activities

On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the World Heritage Education Programme, the WHV 2024 projects will involve young people, communities and site managers in building new, inclusive societies together where World Heritage is a source of resilience, humanity and innovation. National and international volunteers will work together with the local communities through concrete hands-on and awareness-raising activities, to preserve and protect outstanding scenic, natural, scientific, recreational and other significant property values of the National Park along with the protection and maintenance of crucial wetlands and water catchment's areas. 

The hands-on activities in the Action Camp will include wildlife monitoring, tree planting and

reforestation, trail maintenance and construction, environmental education and outreach, community engagement, cultural heritage preservation, research assistance, water resource management and infrastructure improvement projects. Participants will receive training in fieldwork techniques, environmental education, community engagement, and heritage preservation strategies. The experience will provide volunteers with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to protecting and managing the Gashaka Gumti National Park.

About the Gashaka Gumti National Park and the Mambila Plateau

Gashaka Gumti National Park, Nigeria’s largest park with its highest peak, Chappal Wadi (the "Mountain of Death") at 2,400 meters, is an untouched wilderness that has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years. The park spans the eastern provinces of Taraba and Adamawa states, boasting a diverse ecosystem that includes riverine and swamp areas, lush rainforests, savannahs, and mountainous terrains. Covering about 6,402 square kilometers (2,427 square miles), it harbors a variety of wildlife species, such as elephants, forest hog, leopard, hippopotamus, buffalo, hartebeest, yellow-backed duiker, chimpanzees, gorillas, antelopes, monkeys, rare freshwater fish and an abundance of bird life. It also has cultural and historical significance, containing ancient iron smelting sites, burial grounds, shrines, and rock paintings. The park is home to various endangered species, making it a critical area for conservation efforts.

The Mambila Plateau is a highland region of scenic beauty and rich biodiversity that covers about 9,389 square kilometers (3,626 square miles) in the southern part of the state. It is home to various ethnic groups, such as the Mambilla, Kaka, Fulani, Panso, and Ndola, and is the cradle of the Bantu people of southern and east Africa. These groups have distinctive cultures and traditions. The Mambila Known for its stunning landscapes and cool climate, the plateau is a cultural and ecological gem. Its unique environment and rich biodiversity offer an unparalleled backdrop for this year’s WHV initiative. The plateau also hosts several natural attractions, such as waterfalls, lakes, caves, rock formations, and rare plant and animal species. It is also the home of Nigeria’s largest tea plantation (Highland tea) with over 600,000 hectares of land.

Skills Learned by Volunteers:

Teamwork, cultural awareness, environmental education, project management, resilience, fieldwork, and research skills.

Involvement of International Volunteers: International volunteers will act as ambassadors for Gashaka Gumti Park and the Mambila Plateau, promoting environmental stewardship and heritage preservation.

Volunteer Roles

Over 10 days, volunteers will engage in activities designed to enhance their understanding of environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and community development. Participants will:

• Learn about the conservation of natural and cultural heritage sites.

• Engage in hands-on activities to protect the park’s biodiversity.

• Promote conservation awareness and sustainable livelihoods.

• Document and preserve cultural heritage sites and traditions.

• Assist with fieldwork, data collection, and analysis.

• Monitor water quality and restore watersheds.

• Track and record various species within the park.

•  Restore degraded areas and expand forests.

• Participate in various workshops and training sessions.

Volunteer Benefits:

• Learn about conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable development.

• Gain fieldwork techniques, environmental education, community engagement, and heritage preservation skills.

• Connect with nature, learn new skills, and positively impact the environment and local communities.

• Engage with local culture and interact with indigenous communities.

• Strengthen ties and cooperation between organizations and agencies involved in the project.

• Participants will be presented with Certificate of participation.

• Outdoor camping that will offers a designated spot for those seeking a rustic experience.

• Safari and Nature Walk volunteers will explore the vast park, creating lasting memories.

• Hiking on Nigeria’s highest mountain peak (CHAPPAL WADDI). 

• Experience cultural exchanges with local communities and other international volunteers

Eligibilities

• Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit, but participants should be physically fit to meet the demands of the program.

• Volunteers must be available for the entire duration of the program, which typically lasts for 10 days

• Proficiency in English is required as it is the primary language of communication during the program.

• A genuine interest in conservation, wildlife protection, and cultural heritage is essential. 

• The ability to work well in a team is crucial as volunteers will be collaborating with others in various activities.

• Volunteers must be in good physical health and able to participate in physically demanding activities such as hiking, camping, manual labor, and other outdoor tasks.

• Volunteers must provide a medical certificate confirming they are fit to participate in the program at the point of registration during the camp.

•   Volunteers should disclose any allergies or chronic medical conditions that may affect their participation. Necessary medications and medical supplies should be brought by the volunteers.

• Comprehensive health insurance that covers international travel and activities in remote areas is mandatory for international volunteers

Eligible Regions: Open for All
Dates: 17th – 27th September 2024
Participation Fees: (The Participation fees include – Accommodation, food, materials for hands-on activities, and Local Transportation for the duration of the entire program)

Nigeria (Local) Participants:  N35,000

Foreign (International) Participants: $200

NOTE: Spaces are limited to on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reference Link to UNESCO Website: https://whc.unesco.org/en/volunteers2024/

Implementing Partners 2024

National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Nigeria (NCMM), National Park Services (NPS); Ministry of Heritage and Eco-Tourism Taraba State; Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Nigeria Television Authority; Gashaka Gumti Traditional Council; National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO); Taraba State University Jalingo; American University of Nigeria (AUN); Nigerian Red Cross Services; Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA); Triumph college and consultancy services Jalingo.