Sousse: the project to integrate conservation strategies, tourism and local livelihoods

The Director General of the National Heritage Institute and the Japanese Ambassador presided over the closing ceremony of the first phase of the project to integrate conservation strategies, tourism and local livelihoods in World Heritage sites after the Covid-19 pandemic, funded by the Japanese Development Fund, in the presence of representatives of the UNESCO Regional Office for the Maghreb countries, the Secretary General in charge of management for the municipality of Sousse, and the Director General of the National Office for Traditional Industries, as well as executives from the National Heritage Institute, partner institutions and representatives of civil society.
The National Heritage Institute (Directorate for the Conservation of Monuments and Sites and Regional Heritage Inspectorate of the Sahel) launched the implementation of this project in 2023, in partnership with the UNESCO Regional Office for the Maghreb countries and with the support of the municipality of Sousse and the National Council for Traditional Industries.

The project aims to integrate conservation, tourism and local livelihood strategies into the management of the World Heritage site ‘the medina of Sousse’ by supporting the craft sector, an essential pillar for the revitalisation of the medina and the strengthening of the foundations of sustainable development. The project supports a group of artisans and promotes their skills in a creative and attractive way to ensure their sustainability. It contributes to creating economic and cultural momentum within the medina and strengthening the heritage value of the site.