In February 2007, various provinces in Mozambique were badly affected by flooding in the wake of Hurricane Favio. CER immediately commissioned Maputo’s Observatory for Cultural Policies in Africa (OCPA) to investigate and identify the cultural emergencies in the stricken areas. These research missions were carried out in April and June 2007. They established that Hurricane Favio had seriously damaged the archaeological sites at Manyikeni and Chibuene on 22 February 2007, and that immediate action was needed.
The Manyikeni and Chibuene sites in the Inhambane province are viewed as constituting an important historical heritage for the entire region. Manyikeni was a regional centre during the Empire of Great Zimbabwe (c. 400 – 1450 AD). The site consists of a stone enclosure, where a number of artefacts have been found that date from that era. Chibuene was an important trading place on the coast of Mozambique. Archaeological objects have been discovered at the site that are more than 1,000 years old and attest to the influence of international trade across the Indian Ocean. Both locations have been nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
At Manyikeni, CER will contribute to the reconstruction of its information centre. CER’s support will also be used to rebuild the Chibuene information centre along with the offices of the site’s manager and overseer. CER is contributing the sum of €12,500 to each project. The activities commenced in November 2007. The OCPA is responsible for implementing these repairs.
Partner’s information: The Observatory for Cultural Policies in Africa http://ocpa.irmo.hr
Hurricane Favio seriously damaged archeological sites in Mozambique
CER provides emergency relief for cultural heritages that have been affected by man-made or natural disasters.
Cultural Emergency Response
Prince Claus Fund
Hoge Nieuwstraat 30
2514 EL The Hague
Tel. 31 (0)70 4274303
Fax 31 (0)70 4274277
E-mail cer@princeclausfund.nl
www.princeclausfund.nl
