Tripoli: Minister of Tourism and Traditional Industries in the Government of National Unity, Nasr al-Din Milad al-Fazzani, has highlighted the developmental and economic responsibility of preserving tangible and intangible heritage, stating it is a fundamental pillar for supporting sustainable tourism and diversifying Libya's national economy.
According to Libyan News Agency, Al-Fazzani made these remarks during a scientific dialogue in Tripoli, focusing on the preservation of heritage and its role in cultural and tourism development. He emphasized that Libyan heritage forms a crucial part of the national identity and historical memory, with the tourism sector capable of transforming this heritage into economic value by integrating it into cultural tourism routes. This integration is aimed at supporting the local economy and creating employment, particularly in historically significant areas, aligning with the Government of National Unity's vision of diversifying income sources beyond oil.
The Minister noted that the tourism sector experienced growth during 2024 and 2025, with domestic tourism growth rates between 20 and 30 percent. The number of tourists led to over 400,000 guests in accommodation facilities during the 2025 season, generating revenues exceeding one billion Libyan dinars, and a noticeable increase in archaeological site visitors.
Sumaya Osman, a heritage expert at the Ministry, announced the launch of the National Register of Tangible and Intangible Heritage during the dialogue. She explained that the register is vital for protecting cultural identity and preserving collective memory by systematically recording heritage elements. Osman confirmed the project's goals of inventorying and classifying heritage across Libya, creating a comprehensive database, enhancing local participation, and supporting heritage as a developmental attraction.
Osman revealed that the village of Tounine in Ghadames and several landmarks, such as the Al-Farjani Zawiya and the Clock Tower in Tripoli, are now registered in the heritage register. She also noted that intangible elements like traditional games are registered, with ongoing work on other cultural aspects like pottery and couscous.
Khader Bashir, former head of the General Authority for Tourism, stressed the dialogue's importance in promoting Libyan heritage and registering it at various levels. Abdul Basit Abu Qanda, head of the General Authority for Cinema, Theater, and Arts, hailed the heritage registers as unprecedented achievements that will aid in documenting cultural landmarks and customs.
Ali Saleh Amer, Director of the Ministry's Media and Communication Office, highlighted the national register as crucial in supporting cultural tourism and sustainable economic development, while showcasing national and international experiences.
The dialogue concluded with a call for developing actionable recommendations to protect and preserve Libyan heritage, enhancing its role in tourism and cultural development, and achieving economic diversification.