The Bijagós Archipelago off the coast of Guinea-Bissau has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique natural environment, AFP reports, citing the organization's office. The decision was made on July 13 during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris.
Comprising 88 islands with a total area exceeding 10,000 square kilometers, the archipelago is renowned for its rich biodiversity and well-preserved traditions of local communities. According to UNESCO, the area is home to rare species such as green and leatherback turtles, manatees, and dolphins. Additionally, the islands provide habitat for 870,000 migratory birds.
Pojalau Island holds particular significance as one of the world's primary nesting sites for sea turtles. The archipelago also features extensive mangrove forests and tidal zones crucial for the region's ecosystem.
The first attempt to list the archipelago as a World Heritage Site was made in 2012 but lacked sufficient scientific evidence and local community involvement at the time. Over the years, extensive research has been conducted, and the interests of the local population have been taken into account.
Declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1996, its new status is expected to aid in preserving ecosystems and promoting sustainable tourism. Only about 20 of the islands have permanent inhabitants.
Moreover, at the same 47th session, UNESCO added Tiwai Island in Sierra Leone to the World Heritage list, home to 11 primate species.
Zhenya Myl'nikova
