Bijagos Archipelago Achieves UNESCO World Heritage Status

The Bijagos Archipelago in Guinea-Bissau has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its exceptional coastal and marine ecosystems. This archipelago, known for its rich biodiversity and traditional local lifestyles, serves as a crucial habitat for endangered species like Green turtles and West African manatees. Covering over 10,000 square kilometers, it consists of 88 islands, with Poilao Island being a significant nesting site for sea turtles. This recognition underscores the importance of conservation efforts in the region.
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Bijagos Archipelago Achieves UNESCO World Heritage Status

UNESCO Recognizes Bijagos Archipelago


Bissau (Guinea-Bissau), July 14: The Bijagos Archipelago, located in Guinea-Bissau, West Africa, has officially been added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, as announced by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Sunday.


This newly recognized site, known as the Coastal and Marine Ecosystems of the Bijagos Archipelago -- Omati Minho, encompasses a variety of coastal and marine ecosystems that are among the best-preserved in the region.


Situated off the West African coast, the Bijagos Archipelago is distinguished as the only active deltaic archipelago along the African Atlantic coast and is one of the rare examples globally, according to reports.


The archipelago is celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity and its deep connection to the traditional lifestyles of local communities.


UNESCO highlights that this site is home to many endangered and rare species, including Green and Leatherback turtles, West African manatees, and various dolphin species.


Each year, over 870,000 migratory shorebirds utilize the Bijagos Archipelago as a crucial stopover or wintering habitat.


The ecosystems within the archipelago include mangroves, mudflats, and intertidal zones that are essential for marine life. Additionally, the area supports rare plant species, diverse fish populations, and significant bird colonies.


Poilao Island, part of this archipelago, is recognized as a globally important nesting ground for sea turtles, particularly Green turtles, making it a key focus for conservation initiatives in the region.


Covering more than 10,000 square kilometers, the archipelago consists of 88 islands and islets, with only about 20 of them being permanently inhabited.


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