Ambassador Albertus !Aochamub says that there is a global disparity in the recognition of UNESCO World Heritage sites, emphasising the significant imbalance between African and European countries.

Namibia's Permanent Delegate to UNESCO described the situation as "sad," as he revealed that some European nations have more listed sites than all of Africa combined.

The ambassador made these comments when he recently sat down with nbc News at the Namibian Embassy in Paris, France.

Ambassador !Aochamub stated that global injustice must be addressed within the UN system, particularly through UNESCO.

While Namibia boasts two heritage sites, the Namib Sand Sea in Sossusvlei and Twyfelfontein or |Ui-||aes in the Kunene Region, many other unique African properties remain unlisted, despite their cultural and biodiversity significance.

!Aochamub noted that the Africa World Heritage Fund therefore not only seeks to increase African inscriptions but also focusses on developing local skills so that Africans themselves can handle the inscription process, which has traditionally been led by Europeans.

"We must empower Africans, particularly women and youth, to take charge of heritage conservation and management. Namibia has served on the AWHF (African World Heritage Fund) board for the past two years, representing Southern Africa alongside representatives from other regions, ensuring that African heritage is both preserved and globally recognised."

The Africa World Heritage Fund was established by the Africa Group at UNESCO 19 years ago, comprising the delegations of African countries accredited to UNESCO.

Endorsed by the African Union, the Fund is a Category 2 Centre within UNESCO's structure, financed by the countries that are part of the fund.

!Aochamub highlighted Namibia's role as a member of the board of the Africa World Heritage Fund, further emphasising the importance of heritage preservation and sustainable management of World Heritage Sites.

"The Africa World Heritage Fund ensures that countries have the necessary resources and technical backing to submit strong nominations. This includes training professionals to manage these sites post-inscription, which is critical for maintaining their value," !Aochamub said.

South Africa, as host, bears the costs of administration and infrastructure to ensure its effectiveness.