Libreville, Gabon – June 18, 2026
The Gabonese non-governmental organization (NGO) Génération Ekang has been officially accredited by UNESCO, a significant achievement for the promotion and preservation of Gabon’s intangible cultural heritage.
This recognition comes after Génération Ekang’s pivotal role in inscribing the Mvet, an ancestral art form of speech practiced by the Ekang people, on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2025.
The Mvet, which encompasses oral traditions, music, dance, and storytelling, is deeply rooted in the Ekang community and serves as a reflection of their history, values, and worldview.
Gabon’s ratification of the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2004 and its subsequent implementation reports have been instrumental in this recognition.
With this UNESCO accreditation, Génération Ekang becomes the first Gabonese NGO to be officially recognized by the international body.
The organization’s efforts in research, documentation, and valorization of Gabon’s cultural heritage, despite limited resources and the absence of public subsidies, have been celebrated.
The accreditation is a testament to Gabon’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural traditions and a significant milestone for the Ekang community. It also marks a step forward in the country’s cultural diplomacy, ensuring that the Mvet and other cultural expressions are cherished and shared with the world.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Agpgabon
Source: Redaction
