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Sifelani Tsiko-Innovations Editor
The African World Heritage Fund has paid tribute to Professor Dawson Munjeri, historian and Pan-African heritage scholar, who passed away on April 29.
In a statement, the fund said Prof Munjeri was one of its founding members. The fund is an inter-governmental organisation created in 2006 by the African Union and UNESCO to support the effective conservation and protection of the cultural and natural heritage of outstanding universal value in Africa.
“He was instrumental in shaping the mission and objectives of the AWHF, and his passion for safeguarding Africa’s heritage was unmatched. He brought to the table a wealth of knowledge, experience, and dedication that left an indelible mark on the fund and continues to guide our efforts in protecting and celebrating the continent’s rich and diverse heritage,” the fund said.
Prof Munjeri, who was Zimbabwe’s cultural ambassador at Unesco and an expert in heritage conservation and monitoring in many countries, passed away at his home in Helensvale in Harare at the age of 75.
The internationally acclaimed heritage scholar was laid to rest on Saturday at Glen Forest Cemetery in Harare.
With the support of the AWHF, Prof Munjeri championed the creation of the UNESCO Chair on African Heritage in 2020, emphasising the importance of rigorous inquiry and interdisciplinary collaboration for an in-depth understanding of the African heritage and its contribution towards the development agenda.
“Prof Munjeri will be remembered not only for his significant contributions to the AWHF, but also for his tireless advocacy for the recognition and conservation of Africa’s heritage on the global stage. His legacy will continue to inspire current and future generations of heritage professionals and scholars across the continent and beyond,” the AWHF said.
“During this time of mourning, our thoughts and prayers are with Professor Munjeri’s family, friends, and colleagues. We extend our deepest condolences to all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. May he rest in peace, knowing that his legacy will forever endure through the continued efforts of the AWHF and the wider heritage community in Africa and beyond.”
Heritage scholars said his depth of knowledge in the history and heritage conservation in Africa, made him one of the most respected academics at Unesco and internationally.
UNESCO chair on African Heritage and Great Zimbabwe University archaeologist Dr Thomas Thondhlana said the death of Prof Munjeri has left a huge void which will be difficult to fill.
“Most of the developments that have been happening in the heritage sector were due to his ideas and influence. We have lost a mentor who had a huge impact in the heritage sector. We all benefited from his selflessness.”
Born on 11 July, 1949, Prof Munjeri did secondary education at Fletcher High School in Gweru and later enrolled for a BA Honours History degree at the then University of Rhodesia in 1973.
In 1981, he did a Postgraduate Diploma in Information Systems and Librarianship at the University of Wales, UK.
In 2010 he completed his PhD studies in International Relations and Diplomacy.
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