The French Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Hon. Paul Bertrand Barets, has reaffirmed his commitment to the Great Zimbabwe Development Project, a EUR 3 million initiative funded by France to promote sustainable and inclusive tourism development while preserving Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.

Ambassador Barets, who recently visited the project site, highlighted its significance, stating that his focus is on aligning all efforts to finalize the project. A key component of this initiative is the construction of a brand-new Visitors’ Center, which he believes will enhance the site’s attractiveness and improve public understanding of this unique World Heritage Site.

He emphasized the vital role of cultural heritage in fostering national identity and economic growth, describing it as a key lever for development that strengthens local identity.

The Great Zimbabwe Development Project is a collaborative effort involving the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe, UNESCO, UNOPS, AFD – Agence Française de Développement, and the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage. Its primary goal is to rehabilitate and develop the Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site by improving conservation efforts and integrating the site with the local economy.

The initiative focuses on strengthening national capacities by enhancing the ability of the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe to conserve and document the site. Additionally, infrastructure development is a key component, with plans to renovate and upgrade visitor facilities, including a new interpretation system. Another crucial aspect is promotion and marketing, aimed at attracting both local and international tourists. Furthermore, the project incorporates a community development plan to support local economies through cultural and community-based resource management.

As the largest dry-stone structure in sub-Saharan Africa, the Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site holds immense historical and cultural significance. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, it remains one of the most spectacular architectural and cultural landscapes on the continent.

By enhancing the site’s value, the project is expected to contribute to employment creation, economic growth, and Zimbabwe’s progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Ambassador Barets expressed his optimism about the project’s progress, stating that while there is still a lot of work to do, the determination to see it through remains strong. His commitment underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage while leveraging it for sustainable development and tourism.

(Source: Hon. Paul Bertrand Barets’ Facebook page.)