A significant initiative focused on enhancing capabilities for the preservation of Mali’s ancient manuscripts has officially commenced, marking the launch of a new series of specialized training workshops. This endeavor falls under the broader project, “Promoting the Preservation and Accessibility of Endangered African Documentary Heritage.”

Led by the UNESCO Office in Mali in close collaboration with the NGO SAVAMA-DCI, this program aims to bolster the expertise of over 70 individuals. Participants include agents from families who are custodians of these historical manuscripts, alongside dedicated students and researchers. The ultimate goal is to better safeguard and promote this invaluable cultural legacy.

The ancient manuscripts of the Sahel region, particularly those found in Mali, represent an unparalleled repository of knowledge. They stand as profound testaments to the African continent’s rich intellectual and historical tapestry. However, these priceless artifacts face increasing threats from ongoing security crises and the adverse effects of climate change. Consequently, their robust preservation has become a paramount concern for both national authorities and their international partners.

With this critical context in mind, the current project seeks to build upon the successes of prior programs, striving to elevate practices in the conservation, accessibility, and valorization of endangered documentary heritage.

The comprehensive training curriculum is structured into several progressive workshops:

• The inaugural workshop, scheduled from June 29 to July 1, 2026, focuses on advanced techniques for the prospecting and identification of ancient manuscripts. Participants will gain crucial skills to locate, categorize, and verify manuscripts held within families, private libraries, and various other archival settings.

• The subsequent workshop, taking place from July 2 to July 4, 2026, will delve into the methodologies of inventory creation and the establishment of comprehensive repertoires. Attendees will learn to systematically collect, organize, and meticulously describe information pertaining to these manuscripts, developing standardized descriptive entries.

These two interconnected sessions, which formally began on June 29, 2026, will provide a holistic understanding of ancient manuscript management. The opening ceremony was graced by the representative of the Minister of Handicrafts, Culture, Hotel Industry and Tourism, the interim Head of the UNESCO Office in Mali, and the Executive President of the NGO SAVAMA-DCI. The immediate beneficiaries of these initial workshops are 15 agents from families entrusted with these precious documents, who will learn skills from identification through systematic documentation.

Mr. Mamadou Cissé, Technical Advisor and representative of the Minister in charge of Culture, affirmed the government’s steadfast commitment, stating, “The Department of Handicrafts, Culture, Hotel Industry and Tourism assures you of its continuous support for the success of this project and will pay particular attention to the expected results and its impacts.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Ali-Mohamed Sinane, Head of the UNESCO Office, emphasized the profound significance of the undertaking: “To preserve ancient manuscripts is to safeguard our collective memory, our identity, and our shared history. It is also to transmit an intellectual heritage of inestimable value to future generations. I express my sincere hope that these workshops will be rich in exchanges, learning, and commitment, contributing significantly to efforts for the safeguarding of Mali’s documentary heritage.”

Upon completing these initial two workshops, participants will be fully equipped to undertake field missions, accurately identify manuscripts, provide detailed descriptions, and contribute effectively to their integration into structured inventory systems.

This comprehensive training initiative represents a pivotal stride in bolstering national capacities for the protection and valorization of ancient manuscripts in Mali. Further training phases are planned for the coming months, extending to students and researchers, focusing on critical editing and translation of these historical texts.

Through these vital workshops, UNESCO and its esteemed partners, notably the Government of Japan, unequivocally reaffirm their dedication to preserving African documentary heritage. The overarching objective is twofold: not only to safeguard these irreplaceable treasures for future generations but also to elevate their public recognition as cultural assets of immense historical importance.