Janjanbureh Island, formerly known as Georgetown, has been officially added to UNESCO’s Network of Places of History and Memory Linked to Enslavement, making it the first site in The Gambia to receive this international recognition.

The announcement was confirmed by Honourable Omar Jatto Jammeh, National Assembly Member for Janjanbureh, who described the news as a historic moment for the island and the country at large.

The nomination, submitted by The Gambia’s National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC) in February 2025, was accepted earlier this month.

It places Janjanbureh among a select group of 28 locations globally recognised for their role in the history of enslavement and the transatlantic slave trade.

The UNESCO network, launched in 2024, aims to safeguard sites connected to this dark chapter of human history while promoting community development and education.

It also supports partnerships between cities through a twinning initiative that encourages cultural exchange and shared development strategies.

Janjanbureh’s inclusion means the island may now partner with internationally significant locations such as New Orleans in the United States, Cape Coast Castle in Ghana, and Badagary in Nigeria.

Hon. Jammeh highlighted the potential benefits for local heritage, noting that annual cultural events like the Kankurang Festival could gain greater visibility and international support.

The recognition is also expected to lead to increased conservation funding and tourism interest.

UNESCO will formally communicate the decision to The Gambia’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture in the coming weeks.

Traditionally, the UNESCO Director-General or a designated envoy visits recognised sites to present an official plaque.

A statement from the NCAC expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who supported the nomination, including local leaders, elders, and community organisations.

By Adama Makasuba