Researcher, Mozambique
Omar received his BA in History from Eduardo Mondlane University in 2008, and since 2010 he has worked as a lecturer in the Department of Archaeology and Anthropology in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. His specialised area is African Archaeology. In 2015, he completed his Master’s degree in Archaeology at the University of Algarve in Portugal and, in 2024 he completed his PhD at Uppsala University. His work examined how rescue archaeology is managed in Mozambique and argued that the system needs to be more professional, consistent, and inclusive. By comparing policies with neighbouring countries and using interviews, he was able to show that better procedures, shared methods, and unified recording standards are necessary to protect cultural heritage effectively. The study also emphasized that rescue archaeology can create jobs, support community involvement, and should work together with natural heritage and sustainability goals by including a wider range of stakeholders whilst simultaneously recognising their knowledge, rights, and interests.
I am motivated by the sustainable management of Africa’s valuable cultural heritage. Such work is even more important in the current context, where the continent faces numerous challenges in protecting and preserving archaeological sites and historical monuments. I am enthused by a project that creates conditions for developing and strengthening the technical and professional skills of its members, whilst at the same time promoting institutional and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Outside of work Omar is fascinated by wildlife and enjoys taking part in sports.