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Chaired by the Honourable Ms. Ummi Bashir, CBS, Principal Secretary of Kenya’s Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage, with co-chair H.E. Yolande Elebe Ma Ndembo from the Democratic Republic of Congo, and rapporteur H.E Moussa Moise Sylla Minister for Culture, Tourism and Handicrafts of Guinea, the discussions laid the groundwork for Africa’s active participation in the global MONDIACULT Conference in Barcelona, Spain, from September 29 to October 1, 2025.

The consultations emphasized the critical role of cultural rights in safeguarding diversity and resilience. Participants prioritized the restitution of cultural property, equitable access to cultural expressions, and protecting artists’ intellectual property rights. Delegates highlighted the importance of passing cultural knowledge to younger generations to preserve Africa’s rich heritage.

Another key focus was the transformative power of digital technologies in the cultural sector. Attendees recognized the opportunities offered by digital platforms and artificial intelligence to expand cultural expression and protect heritage. However, they also underscored the challenges, including piracy and ethical concerns surrounding AI. Proposals included enhancing digital infrastructure and equipping artists with skills to navigate the digital landscape effectively.

Education featured prominently, with calls to integrate local languages, traditional knowledge, and cultural heritage into school curricula. Such initiatives, delegates argued, would foster creativity, social cohesion, and empower young people to embrace their cultural identities. Partnerships between schools and cultural organizations were proposed to enrich learning experiences.

The consultations also underscored the economic potential of creative industries as engines of growth and youth employment. Increased investment in cultural policies, social protections for artists, and improved access to international markets were seen as crucial. Mobility programs to connect artists across borders were suggested to unlock the sector’s full potential.

Climate action through culture was another priority. Traditional knowledge systems were identified as vital for managing natural resources, ensuring food security, and enhancing disaster preparedness. Delegates advocated for integrating cultural approaches into climate policies and engaging local communities in sustainable practices.

Beyond environmental resilience, culture was celebrated as a unifying force for peace and reconciliation. Discussions highlighted the power of cultural events, such as festivals and cross-border exchanges, in fostering social harmony. Investments in cultural diplomacy and conflict-sensitive programming were encouraged to address historical divisions and promote dialogue in conflict-affected regions.

A resounding call for a dedicated Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) for culture emerged during the consultations. Delegates emphasized culture’s contributions to economic growth, education, gender equality, and environmental sustainability, advocating for its recognition as a stand-alone goal in the post-2030 framework. Proposals included improved data collection to measure culture’s impact and allocating at least 1% of national budgets to cultural development.

As the MONDIACULT 2025 Conference, which is scheduled to take place from 29 September to 1 October 2025 in Barcelona Spain, approaches, the African regional consultation marks a significant milestone in Africa’s journey to reassert its cultural identity on the global stage. The actionable recommendations shared during the sessions will shape Africa’s contributions to the conference and ensure the region’s voice is central to the global cultural policy agenda.

• Learn more on the Regional Consultations for the UNESCO MONDIACULT 2025 Conference