By Yunus S Saliu
Musa Foon, a staffer of the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC) has been certified as a UNESCO Scientific Diver by the World Underwater Federation (CMAS).
Mr. Foon who is also a Heritage Assistant at the Kankurang Centre in Janjanbureh, Central River Region, has been certified marking a milestone in The Gambia’s efforts to protect underwater cultural heritage.
He received the certification following a series of specialized training programmes organized by UNESCO in underwater archaeology and scientific diving.
Speaking to the media, Foon said the achievement followed his participation in several international training programmes, beginning with underwater archaeology and diving training in Dakar, Senegal, in 2020.
He said he later attended advanced training sessions in Türkiye and Cabo Verde, which helped him develop the skills required for the UNESCO-recognised scientific diver certification.
“During these trainings, I was able to excel, and this has now culminated in my certification as a UNESCO-recognised scientific diver,” Foon said.
He explained that his assignment in Janjanbureh provided him with valuable exposure to underwater cultural heritage resources, noting that the island community contains important historical sites, including old wharves, wells and boat wrecks.
Foon expressed appreciation to the NCAC for supporting his participation in national and international capacity-building programmes.
He also commended the Government of The Gambia for ratifying the UNESCO 2001 Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage, describing it as an important step towards safeguarding the country’s submerged heritage resources.
Meanwhile, NCAC Director General Hassoum Ceesay described Foon’s certification as a significant achievement that would enhance the institution’s capacity to fulfil its obligations under the UNESCO convention.
Ceesay said Foon’s expertise in underwater archaeology and scientific diving would contribute to NCAC’s efforts to implement programmes under the convention, including a proposed National Inventory of Old Wells, which is expected to begin soon with UNESCO support.
He added that the certification would strengthen the preservation, documentation and protection of The Gambia’s underwater cultural heritage.
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