China Offers Cash to Put More African Sites on UNESCO Map
China is funding African nations to win UNESCO status — here's why it matters.
Deep Dive
Beijing is offering funds and training to help countries win Unesco listings, a move analysts say boosts its soft power. Africa has ancient cities, rock art and striking natural landscapes, yet its sites are sorely under-represented on Unesco’s World Heritage List: according to UN body data, just 115 of the 1,273 listed sites are in Africa.
Key Points
- Only 115 of 1,273 UNESCO World Heritage sites are in Africa, despite the continent's rich history.
- China is offering funds and training to help African countries win more listings, which can boost tourism and local economies.
- Analysts see this as a move to increase China's influence in Africa, so there may be hidden political motives.
Why It Matters
More UNESCO sites in Africa could mean more tourism jobs and global recognition, but also more Chinese influence.