Nigeria’s Minister of Culture, Arts, and Tourism, Hannatu Musawa, recently led the African Union (AU) delegation at the G20 Culture Ministers’ Meeting in Brazil. This marked a significant event, as African nations collaborated with other global leaders to address pressing cultural issues, with a particular focus on the intersection of cultural heritage and climate action. Musawa’s leadership highlights Africa’s commitment to participating in international dialogues that shape policies impacting both the cultural and environmental sectors.
The meeting, held in Brazil, brought together cultural ministers and representatives from G20 countries and key organizations such as the International Council of Museums (ICOM). A key agenda item was the role of cultural institutions, especially museums, in advancing climate action. ICOM advocated for leveraging museums as educational hubs to promote climate resilience, aligning with broader goals to integrate culture-based approaches into global climate strategies. Musawa echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the unique role of African cultural heritage in fostering sustainable practices and educating communities about environmental stewardship.
Musawa’s representation at the meeting reinforced Africa’s dedication to cultural preservation and climate responsiveness. She highlighted how the African continent’s rich cultural resources can serve as tools for climate education and awareness. In line with this, the AU delegation pushed for more global support and recognition of Africa’s efforts in these areas, calling for collaboration in capacity building, funding, and technical support for African museums and cultural institutions.
Additionally, Musawa engaged in discussions on digital transformation within the cultural sector, which emerged as another focal point. With digital technology playing an increasingly important role in preserving and sharing cultural heritage, the AU emphasized the need to bridge the digital divide to ensure African cultures can be accessible and resilient in the digital era. This call for inclusivity in digital resources resonated with other member states, as well as international bodies present at the meeting.
As the G20 summit concluded, participating nations agreed on a framework that acknowledges culture as a key element in sustainable development. Musawa’s contributions emphasized the value of African voices and perspectives in shaping this global agenda, setting the stage for enhanced cultural cooperation between Africa and other G20 nations in the future.
Meta Description:
or.
Focus Words:
,
Armenian Dram
Ghana Cedi
Gambian Dalasi
Guinea Franc
Nigerian Naira
CFA Franc BEAC
