The African World Heritage Fund (AWHF), in partnership with UNESCO and the African Union, invites applications for its 2025 Conservation Grants. This initiative supports the conservation and sustainable management of World Heritage properties throughout Africa. It is specifically designed to help address the challenges faced by these cultural and natural sites, while also improving their visibility and impact within their communities. The call is open until 31st July 2025.
The Conservation Grants aim to provide targeted funding to strengthen conservation actions at African World Heritage Sites or sites on national Tentative Lists. AWHF assists in addressing conservation issues raised in World Heritage Committee decisions and encourages proposals that promote innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. The Fund also supports efforts to include more African sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List, helping the continent overcome historical under-representation.
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Host country
This is a continent-wide initiative, open to all qualifying heritage projects based in Africa. Eligible projects must be implemented at sites that are either inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List or included in a countryโs Tentative List. Nigeria, as a UNESCO World Heritage State Party, is fully eligible.
Deadline
The application deadline is 31 July 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Eligibility
- Open to government heritage institutions and civil society organisations in formal partnership.
- Projects must directly benefit African World Heritage Sites or Tentative List sites.
- Proposals should respond to specific conservation issues identified in State of Conservation reports or World Heritage Committee decisions.
- Strong preference is given to projects that incorporate youth involvement, entrepreneurship, sustainability, digital documentation, or community engagement.
- An official endorsement from the director of the national heritage institution is required.
- Nigerian applicants are eligible, provided the project is based at a recognised site and meets the stated conditions.
Budget
Applicants must submit a detailed, activity-based budget in US Dollars. The funding must be used strictly for project-related costs such as materials, technical services, and training. A clear indication of financial contributions from the State Party and/or co-funding partners is required.
Evaluation criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- Relevance and clarity of conservation objectives
- Innovation and sustainability of proposed methods
- Realistic and measurable outcomes
- Involvement of local stakeholders or communities
- Soundness and transparency of the budget
- Capacity to deliver the project effectively within the proposed timeframe
Benefits
- Financial support for essential conservation and restoration activities
- Technical backing and increased visibility through AWHF and UNESCO platforms
- Possibility of leveraging the grant to attract additional funding or partnerships
- Strengthened candidacy for sites seeking inscription on the World Heritage List
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Others
AWHF is a UNESCO Category II Centre based in South Africa, committed to preserving Africaโs heritage and enhancing the implementation of the 1972 World Heritage Convention. The grants reflect this mission by supporting the protection of cultural and natural treasures across the continent. Past recipients have included projects focused on structural repairs, risk preparedness, digital preservation, and community-led conservation.
How to Apply
Applicants should the application form from the official website. The completed form, along with required attachments including an endorsement letter, must be submitted electronically. Applications are accepted in English, French, or Portuguese only. Submissions via post or in hard copy will not be considered.
Official Website
Visit the official page on AWHFโs website here.
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