Marrakech: The second International Fossil Heritage Exhibition "Africa - Cradle of Life" opened Friday in Marrakech, Morocco, with the participation of researchers, experts, academic institutions, and NGOs from Morocco, France, Gabon, Mauritania, Namibia, and Libya.

According to Qatar News Agency, the exhibition, organized by Cadi Ayyad University in partnership with the University of Poitiers in France, will run until February 28. It is a scientific and cultural event that highlights efforts to preserve African natural and geological heritage, as well as scientific research on Earth's history and the origins of life.

The exhibition aims to promote and showcase the richness and diversity of African fossil heritage through an interactive scientific and artistic journey. This allows visitors of all backgrounds to discover the origins of life on Earth and understand the major geological transformations that the African continent has undergone over millions of years.

On the sidelines of the opening of the exhibition, the launch of the "International Unity Award for Heritage" was announced. This award is given annually to prominent scientists and researchers, and to individuals who have contributed to the protection of fossil heritage at the African and global levels.