Timbuktu's historic sites revived amid renewed security and South African support

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Timbuktu is showing signs of recovery after the historic city endured widespread destruction during periods of occupation by armed groups in the past decade.

Footage shows the redeveloped Ahmed Baba Institute of Higher Learning and Islamic Research, where manuscripts dating back more than 800 years are preserved. Residents and workers express pride at the institute's restoration and its role in reinforcing cultural identity.

"Today, thank God, the authorities in place have deployed all the means and efforts necessary to secure this city and restore confidence among the region's communities," a resident expressed.

The Ahmed Baba Institute houses thousands of ancient manuscripts documenting centuries of African history, science and theology. During the 2012 crisis, the new IHERI-AB building in Timbuktu was occupied by the insurgents.

Much of the institute's costly digitisation and conservation equipment was destroyed or stolen during the ten-month occupation. An estimated 4,000 manuscripts were also lost.

"They took the manuscripts that were on this table and on the upper floors, gathered them at the entrance of the door, and set them on fire," recounted Kalifa Elhaj Kanane.

"Many manuscripts were digitised, some survived. We must now take all necessary measures to safeguard them for our children and our great-grandchildren," added Sansy Kaba Diakite.

The efforts to restore Timbuktu's cultural landmarks are part of a broader initiative by the Malian government to boost the city's economy and tourism by showcasing histroical artifacts and rich culture.

"Timbuktu is a safe and accessible destination. We invite everyone to come and discover Mali and the city of Timbuktu," declared Bakoun Kante, Governor of Timbuktu.

South Africa's decades-long partnership with Mali to help conserve and archive historic African manuscripts continues amid ongoing regional instability marked by armed conflicts.

Mali and the wider Sahel region have faced persistent security challenges due to the emergence of armed groups, notably the Al-Qaeda affiliated Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam (JNIM), which has carried out periodic attacks and blockades in Timbuktu in recent years.