National Heritage Conservation Commission

Media Release
NHCC SEEKS JAPAN’S SUPPORT FOR ZAMBIA’S WORLD HERITAGE AMBITIONS

LUSAKA, Zambia 🇿🇲, Friday, May 8, 2026 – The National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with the Government of Japan, with a strong appeal for support towards Zambia’s World Heritage aspirations.
This came to light during a high-level meeting held at the InterContinental Hotel Lusaka between NHCC Executive Director Mr. KAGOSI MWAMULOWE and Mr. TAKEHIRO KANO, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, based in Paris.
Speaking during the meeting, Mr. MWAMULOWE emphasised on the importance of Zambia’s longstanding cordial relations with Japan and called for enhanced collaboration, particularly in heritage conservation capacity building. He underscored NHCC’s readiness to engage in exchange programmes aimed at strengthening the technical expertise of conservation officers in managing Zambia’s rich and diverse heritage.
Central to the discussions was Zambia’s bid to increase its representation on the World Heritage List. Mr. MWAMULOWE made a strong appeal to the Government of Japan to support the inscription of the Barotse Cultural Landscape World Heritage site.
The Kalambo Falls already underwent preliminary assessment at establishing its potential outstanding universal value thereby leading to the fact that the site is stronger in cultural heritage.
“We have already submitted the nomination dossier for the Barotse Cultural Landscape to UNESCO for inscription. For the Kalambo Falls we are therefore seeking Japan’s technical or financial support to conclude the process, as Zambia works to elevate this exceptional heritage site to global recognition as it defies man’s evolution.”
Zambia highly recognises Japan's crucial role in supporting African heritage initiatives during the extended 45th World Heritage Session in Riyadh in September 2023, specifically regarding the adoption of the World Heritage Strategy for Africa.
He further highlighted that the successful inscription of these sites would see them join the globally acclaimed Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls, Zambia’s only current World Heritage Site, thereby enhancing the country’s cultural and natural heritage profile on the international stage.
Mr. MWAMULOWE also noted Zambia’s broader vision to promote additional heritage assets, including Liberation Heritage Sites, which stand as powerful symbols of the country’s contribution to global peace and the African liberation struggle.
In response, Ambassador KANO expressed enthusiasm about strengthening cooperation between Japan and Zambia in the field of heritage conservation. He acknowledged the potential for mutual learning between Japanese and Zambian experts and reaffirmed Japan’s interest in supporting initiatives that promote preservation and sustainable management of heritage resources.
The meeting marks a significant step in Zambia’s ongoing efforts to secure international partnerships that will bolster heritage conservation and support its strategic objective of increasing the number of World Heritage Sites in the country.

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Media Release
NHCC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MWAMULOWE RALLIES NATIONAL SUPPORT FOR HERITAGE CONSERVATION AND ANNOUNCES HIGH-LEVEL EXHIBITION AS AFRICA MARKS WORLD HERITAGE DAY
LUSAKA, Zambia, Thursday, May 7, 2026 – The National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC) Executive Director, Mr. KAGOSI MWAMULOWE, has called on all Zambians to take a leading role in safeguarding and promoting the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage as Africa commemorates African World Heritage Day.
Commemorated annually on 5 May following its proclamation by the UNESCO General Conference in 2015, the Day celebrates the continent’s diverse heritage and promotes sustainable conservation efforts.
Mr. MWAMULOWE said the 2026 commemoration is of particular significance as it coincides with key continental milestones, including the launch of the fourth phase of the Mentorship Programme for African Heritage Professionals and the 20th anniversary of the African World Heritage Fund.
“These milestones demonstrate Africa’s growing commitment to strengthening institutional capacity and nurturing a new generation of heritage professionals to safeguard our shared heritage,” Mr. MWAMULOWE said.
He emphasized that Zambia’s heritage remains a critical pillar for national identity, social cohesion, and economic development, particularly through sustainable tourism.
“Zambia is endowed with outstanding heritage resources, including the world-renowned Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls and numerous cultural landscapes and historical sites that continue to earn global recognition,” he said.
Mr. MWAMULOWE noted that the NHCC is aligning its programmes with the 2026 theme by intensifying community engagement, promoting heritage education, and strengthening site management systems across the country.
“At NHCC, we view this year’s theme as a call to deepen community ownership of heritage resources. Sustainable conservation can only be achieved when local communities actively participate as custodians of these invaluable assets,” he stated.
He further highlighted that the Commission is prioritising mentorship, skills development, and partnerships aimed at empowering young professionals in the heritage sector, in line with continental frameworks.
Importantly, Mr. MWAMULOWE assured the nation that the Commission is preparing a high-level national heritage exhibition scheduled for 2027, which will showcase Zambia’s diverse cultural and natural heritage, promote innovation in conservation, and provide a platform for local and international stakeholders to engage.
“The planned exhibition will be a landmark event for Zambia’s heritage sector. It will not only celebrate our rich heritage but also position the country as a hub for heritage dialogue, research, and tourism investment in the region,” he said.
Mr. MWAMULOWE has since urged Zambians, especially the youth, to actively participate in the 2026 “Voices & Eloquence of African Heritage” initiative by sharing stories and creative expressions that celebrate and preserve the nation’s heritage.
“Heritage belongs to all of us. Whether through storytelling, responsible tourism, or direct conservation efforts, every citizen has a role to play in ensuring that our heritage is protected for future generations,” he said.
The NHCC Executive Director also called on the public to take pride in visiting, preserving, and promoting heritage sites across the country.
“Our heritage—from monuments and historical sites to living traditions and natural wonders—is not merely a reflection of our past, but a foundation for our shared future,” he added.
The National Heritage Conservation Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with Government, cooperating partners, and local communities to safeguard Zambia’s heritage resources and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s heritage conservation agenda.
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Heritage Quiz

The Mosi-Oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls in Livingtone Zambia is a marvel that attracts thousands of tourists annually. What other important attraction is found at the Mosi-Oa-Tunya?

Media Release
UNESCO GENERAL CONFERENCE PRESIDENT COMMENDS ZAMBIA–ZIMBABWE COOPERATION AT MOSI-OA-TUNYA/VICTORIA FALLS
LIVINGSTONE, Zambia, Sunday, May 3, 2026 - The National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC) has successfully hosted the President of the UNESCO General Conference, Mr. KHONDKER MOHAMMAD TALHA, during a high-level visit to the iconic Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls World Heritage Site.
The visit was undertaken to appreciate and assess the continued efforts by the Governments of Zambia and Zimbabwe in safeguarding the site’s Outstanding Universal Value, in line with the operational guidelines of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention.
The high-level tour commenced on the Zimbabwean side of the transboundary property and concluded in Zambia, demonstrating the shared responsibility and coordinated management of one of the world’s most celebrated natural heritage sites.
Speaking after touring key sections of the site, including the Eastern Cataract where the rainforest is on the Zambian side, Ambassador TALHA expressed admiration for the strong spirit of collaboration between the two nations in preserving the integrity and global significance of the property.
“I am particularly impressed by the collaboration between Zambia and Zimbabwe in preserving the Outstanding Universal Value of the property,” he said.
The NHCC, a statutory body of the Ministry of Tourism, notes that such visits reaffirm the strength of bilateral cooperation and provide an important platform to showcase ongoing efforts toward sustainable conservation and heritage management. The visit further highlights the global importance of Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls as a shared natural asset requiring continued joint stewardship.
NHCC Conservation Officer Mr. JOHN ZULU, emphasised the significance of the visit, stating that such high-level engagements validate ongoing conservation initiatives while enhancing international recognition and support for heritage preservation efforts in the region.
Also, in the Zambian delegation that welcomed Mr. TALHA, was Dr. SAMSON KANTINI, Senior Programme Officer – Culture, Zambia National Commission for UNESCO.
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Media Release

NHCC COMMENDS WORKERS ON LABOUR DAY, REAFFIRMATION COMMITMENT TO HERITAGE PROTECTION

Lusaka, Zambia, Friday, May 1, 2026 - The National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC) Executive Director, Mr. KAGOSI MWAMULOWE has conveyed warm Labour Day greetings to all employees across the Commission in recognition of their dedication, resilience, and invaluable contribution to the preservation of Zambia’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
In a message marking this year’s Labour Day, Mr. MWAMULOWE paid tribute to the hardworking men and women of the NHCC who continue to demonstrate professionalism and commitment in safeguarding the nation’s heritage resources.
“As we commemorate this important day, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all NHCC staff for their unwavering efforts in ensuring that Zambia’s heritage is protected and promoted for present and future generations,” he said.
Mr. MWAMULOWE encouraged employees to remain steadfast in their duties and to continue striving for excellence in their respective roles. He emphasized that the Commission’s success is anchored on the collective effort, innovation, and integrity of its workforce.
He further reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to creating a supportive and progressive work environment that fosters growth, skills development, and job security in line with this year’s Labour Day theme:
“Securing Zambia’s Future to Work: Protecting Jobs, Skills and Pensions for Decent Work for All.”
“The Commission remains dedicated to investing in its human capital by promoting skills development and ensuring decent working conditions, as we collectively work towards securing Zambia’s future through heritage conservation,” he added.
Mr. MWAMULOWE noted that the protection of Zambia’s heritage not only preserves national identity but also contributes to sustainable development, job creation, and economic growth, particularly within the tourism sector.
He concluded by urging all staff members to take pride in their role as custodians of Zambia’s heritage and to continue working together in unity and determination to achieve the Commission’s mandate.
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