UNESCO has officially added “Henna: Ritual, Aesthetic, and Social Practices” to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
It is a significant milestone for North African cultural heritage, , following efforts led by Mauritania and Morocco.
This recognition highlights the cultural importance of henna, which is deeply embedded in the traditions of both nations and serves as a symbol of joy and celebration during festive occasions.
The application, which was approved during the 19th session of the UNESCO committee in Asunción, Paraguay, was supported by 16 Arab countries.
These include Mauritania, Morocco, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and others, showcasing the broad regional support for preserving this cultural practice.
Henna, used in rituals ranging from weddings to religious ceremonies, has long been an integral part of social life in these countries.
The UNESCO listing serves to safeguard and promote the practice for future generations.
In another UNESCO triumph, Algeria celebrated the inclusion of its traditional women’s ceremonial dress, the Gandoura and Melehfa, on the Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
These garments, characterized by delicate embroidery and intricate designs, are more than just clothing—they are symbols of identity and collective memory for communities in eastern Algeria.
Worn during weddings, religious festivals, and national celebrations, the Gandoura and Melehfa reinforce social bonds, celebrate craftsmanship, and symbolize the cultural richness of the region.
The craftsmanship involved in creating these garments is passed down through generations in family workshops, where techniques such as M’jeboud, Fetla, and Tell are used to create stunning patterns and decorations.
The use of precious materials like velvet, natural silk, and gold thread underscores the significance of the occasion for which the dress is worn, with each color carrying symbolic meaning—white for purity, red for joy, and gold for wealth.
This UNESCO recognition of both henna practices and Algerian traditional dress marks a significant step in the global appreciation of North African cultural traditions.
These achievements are the result of a collective effort by artisans, researchers, and civil society, coordinated by Algeria’s Ministry of Culture and Arts.
The recognition not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the region but also promises to boost the tourism and economic potential of these art forms, encouraging younger generations to continue the traditions of their ancestors.
