In News:

In a landmark achievement for global environmental conservation, Sierra Leone has secured its first UNESCO World Heritage Site with the inscription of the Gola-Tiwai Complex, comprising the Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary and the Gola Rainforest National Park (GRNP). This milestone is the result of over three decades of environmental activism led by Tommy Garnett, founder of the Environmental Foundation for Africa (EFA).

About the Gola-Tiwai World Heritage Site

Location

• Southern Sierra Leone, along the Moa River, near the Liberia border.

Components

1. Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary
   • Area: Only 12 sq. km
   • Biodiversity: Home to 11 primate species, including:
     • Western Chimpanzee (endangered)
     • Diana Monkey
     • *King Colobus Monkey
   • Serves as a biodiversity research hub and ecotourism destination in West Africa.
2. Gola Rainforest National Park
   • Sierra Leone’s largest tropical rainforest
   • Biodiversity Highlights:
     • Pygmy Hippopotamus
     • Critically Endangered African Forest Elephant
     • Numerous bird, insect, and plant species
   • Provides critical services such as:
     • Carbon sequestration
     • Climate regulation
     • Genetic biodiversity conservation

Ecological and Global Significance

• Biodiversity Hotspot: The Gola-Tiwai complex is one of the most biologically diverse areas in West Africa.
• Sustainable Development Model:
  • Combines community engagement, scientific research, and eco-tourism.
  • Sets a precedent for post-conflict environmental restoration.
• Global Climate Importance: The rainforest acts as a carbon sink, playing a role in mitigating climate change.
• Cultural-Ecological Linkages: Local communities depend on forests for livelihoods, traditions, and spiritual practices.

Geographical Context: Sierra Leone

Capital: Freetown

• Located on a peninsula with one of the world’s largest natural harbours.

Neighbouring Countries: Guinea (North and East), Liberia (Southeast), Atlantic Ocean (Southwest)

Key Geographical Features:

• Mountains:
  • Mount Bintimani (Loma Mansa) – Highest peak at 1,948 m (6,391 ft)
  • Tingi Hills, Sula Plateau, Kambui Schists
• Rivers:
  • Major rivers: Moa, Sewa, Mano, Rokel
  • Originate in Fouta Djallon highlands in Guinea
• Coastal Plains: Include mangrove swamps, lateritic soils, and seasonally flooded Bolilands
• Climate: Tropical with high rainfall and Harmattan winds in dry seasons

Natural Resources:

• Rich in diamonds, gold, rutile, and bauxite
• Economy based on mining and agriculture

In News:

Recently nominated for UNESCO’s World Heritage Site status, Gingee Fort is part of the Maratha Military Landscapes of India, which encompasses 12 historical sites, primarily located in Maharashtra, with Gingee being the sole representative from Tamil Nadu. The nomination highlights the fort’s historical importance, unique military architecture, and its integral role in Maratha military history.

Significance of Gingee Fort

Gingee Fort, often referred to as the "Troy of the East," stands as a crucial historical monument in Tamil Nadu. Perched atop three prominent hillocks—Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, and Chandragiri—it has served as a significant stronghold for numerous empires throughout Indian history, including the Vijayanagar Nayaks, Marathas, Mughals, French, and British. This fortification exemplifies India’s rich and diverse historical legacy.

Unique Features

The fort complex spans 11 acres and boasts an array of significant structures, including:

• Kalyana Mahal: An eight-storey royal residence.
• Durbar Hall: A ceremonial hall for gatherings.
• Stepped Well and Cannon: Examples of advanced engineering and military use.
• Clock Tower and Armory: Reflecting its historical military significance.
• Elephant Tank and Stables: Indicating its use for royal elephants.
• Temples and Mosques: Including the Venkataramana Temple with intricate carvings and the Sadathtulla Mosque.

Additionally, the fort features advanced water supply systems from various historical periods, ensuring adequate resources for its inhabitants.

Historical Timeline

The origins of Gingee Fort trace back to 1200 CE when built by Ananta Kon of the Konar Dynasty. The fort underwent significant renovations under the Vijayanagar Empire. Key historical events include:

• 1677: Captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji, it remained under Maratha control until 1698.
• 1698: Came under Mughal possession, later ruled by the Nawabs of Arcot and briefly by the French.
• 1750-1770: Occupied by the French before falling to the British.

This timeline reflects the fort's strategic and cultural significance across different dynasties.

Nomination Process for UNESCO

The process for securing UNESCO World Heritage Site status involves rigorous evaluation. Experts from UNESCO and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) assess the site's historical significance, conservation state, and management strategies. A visit to Gingee Fort is scheduled as part of this evaluation, with a recommendation expected for the 2025 World Heritage designation.

Preparation of the Nomination Dossier

The Development and Research Organisation for Nature, Arts and Heritage (DRONAH) prepared the nomination dossier, aligning with UNESCO’s operational guidelines. This comprehensive document details the fort's historical context, conservation status, and management strategies, aimed at demonstrating its outstanding value for humanity.