As 2023 marks the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Convention, the special edition stamp ‘20 years… Let’s celebrate living heritage’ will be released in September 2023 by La Poste, the French post office.

This stamp highlights Africa’s rich intangible cultural heritage, as the continent is one of the most active regions in safeguarding living heritage, which plays a fundamental role in shaping a strong cultural identity within each community.

The Zaouli is a popular dance and music practiced by the Gouro communities of Côte d’Ivoire in the departments of Bouaflé and Zuénoula. The practise plays educational, recreational, and aesthetic purposes. Paying tribute to feminine beauty, it draws inspiration from two masks: the Blou and the Djela. The holders and practitioners of Zaouli are not only dancers but also sculptors, artisans, musicians, singers, and the notables. They are the guarantors of their community’s customs and traditions. Carrying the cultural identity of its bearers, Zaouli also contributes to environmental preservation and fosters integration and social cohesion.

The stamp (valid for Europe and international) and its philatelic document will be available for sale from the UNESCO shop starting September 8 in preview, and at La Poste offices from September 11.