The Republic of Kenya ratified the 1970 Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property following several years of negotiations between the Permanent Delegation, the relevant Kenyan authorities and UNESCO; as well as high-level diplomatic engagements. The original instrument of the Convention was deposited at UNESCO on 15th February 2024, hence, in accordance with Article 2 of the Convention, the ratification entered into force on 15th May 2024.

The ratification paves way for strengthening of cultural heritage in Kenya and for fruitful regional and international cooperation to address the illicit trafficking of cultural property and its devastating for peace, security and enjoyment of cultural rights, economic development, cultural identity and scientific knowledge.

In his congratulatory message, UNESCO’s Assistant Director General in charge of the Culture Sector Mr. Ernesto Attone assured Kenya of its support in the implementation of the Treaty in order to strengthen national capacities in the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural property.