Decision 46 COM 7B.27

Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou (Morocco) (C 444)

The World Heritage Committee,

1. Having examined Document WHC/24/46.COM/7B,
2. Commends the State Party for having promptly carried out a mission to assess the damage caused by the earthquake, as well as for the measures taken to ensure the safety of people and properties, and the stabilization of structures damaged by the earthquake of 8 September 2023;
3. Notes with satisfaction the willingness of the State Party to initiate a programme of studies, restoration of buildings impacted by the earthquake and consolidation of ruined buildings, as well as its intention to proceed with the programme for the restoration of houses within the property;
4. Requests the State Party to submit to the World Heritage Centre the roadmap of activities planned in the framework of these interventions;
5. Noting with concern the development of commercial activities and tourist accommodation within the property to the detriment of its residential functions, encourages the State Party to resume the revitalisation and community awareness-raising activities outlined in the 2020-2030 management plan;
6. Also encourages the State Party to continue to improve the management conditions of the property, in particular:
   1. Establish a management structure with human and financial resources to coordinate work within the property,
   2. Draw up a risk management plan and a visitor management plan,
   3. Draw up a development plan of the property;
7. Finally requests the State Party to submit to the World Heritage Centre, by 1 December 2025, an updated report on the state of conservation of the property and the implementation of the above, for examination by the World Heritage Committee at its 48th session.