Angolan Semba and Brazilian Maracatu nominated for UNESCO Intangible Heritage

The Angolan semba and Brazilian maracatu are among cultural expressions to be reviewed by UNESCO in December for intangible heritage status. The Intergovernmental Committee will meet in Xiamen, China, to evaluate 64 nominations from 82 countries, highlighting the diversity of living traditions. The semba, a music and dance form from Angola, and two Brazilian practices, maracatu and the Yaokwa ritual, are included in the Portuguese-speaking countries' nominations. The Yaokwa is transitioning from the urgent safeguarding list to the representative list, reflecting preservation efforts. This year's agenda features 59 nominations, including multinational applications, emphasizing international cooperation in heritage preservation.