In response to the article on the “archaeological excavations: discovery contested off Madagascar”, published in Midi Madagasikara on July 7, the co -founder of the NGO Center for the Historical Shipwreck Preservation Inc., (CHSP), Brandon Clifford, one of the authors of the article published on the discovery of the wreck Nossa Senhora. To exercise his right of response, faced with the words of Dr Jean Soulat who challenged the veracity of their discovery. The co-author being Mark Agostini, PHD and MA in anthropology and archeology of the University of Brown, whose “defamatory and false statements have seriously affected his personal and professional reputation,” he said.
Brandon Clifford wishes to come back to the facts: “More than 25 years of in -depth research, including 15 years on the ground, followed by extensive work in archives and analyzes of artifacts in the laboratory, led to the conclusion and publication of the results. »»
Still in close collaboration with the Malagasy State which always has the premiere of the results, and not of foreign universities, since it would be contrary to the agreements. Subsequent permits have reinforced in a good and exclusive partnership contract in 2012 with the rights and duties of each party. We remain in contact, in discussions and in permanent talks with the Malagasy authorities to date, “he adds.
The excavations were carried out with sought -after techniques, according to Brandon Clifford: “In 2000, we discovered several shipwreck sites of ships. Subsequent shipments have focused on in -depth studies using advanced techniques such as scanning, manometry, profiling of the seabed etc … Our last on -site shipping took place in 2015 with more precision on the data, which allowed us to issue the hypothesis of the veracity of the CABO. »»
Indeed, they had to stop the excavations after that. “” For eminently geopolitical reasons, our presence on site has ended, with dispute of course. But we respected the decision of the Malagasy authorities at the time “, He said.
However, their archive studies and laboratory analyzes continue permanently due to global scientific interests and profits for the Malagasy population of the project as a whole.
“” As a scientist, we are still in constant reservations. Interdisciplinary research in progress and continuous analyzes will make it possible to consolidate the hypothesis “He wants to notice.
Brandon Clifford underlines that the sites that have published on this discovery are recognized for their seriousness and rigor in terms of scientific publication. These are Wreck Watch Magazine and Live Science and Science & Life.
“” In addition, we also respond to Dr. Soulat who speaks a lot about banishment against us “, Continues Brandon Clifford. “” He prides himself on being the director of excavation to Sainte Marie since 2022, having resumed the research after the passage -2 -day fuel, from UNESCO. And yet a prohibition missive was sent by the MCC for its team in 2022, but an intervention took place. The ban was lifted to the regret of local authorities, this is how Dr. Soulat was able to work He explains.
In 2024, a bailiff’s observation took place during their excavation and their questionable methods to Sainte Marie.
A decision of suspension (decision n ° 009/2025/MCC) fixing the preservation measures of the underwater cultural heritage throughout the territory of the Republic of Madagascar signed by the Minister of Communication and Culture was released on July 8, one day after the publication of the Dr Soulat protest article. It reaffirms the suspension of the issuance of all new excavation authorization requests and cancels the execution of excavation authorizations previously issued.
“” This letter puts an end to false allegations and all arrogance on the part of Dr SouLat, ”concludes Brandon Clifford.
However, he wanted to congratulate Dr. Soulat and his team for their dedication, of which ” The studies have contributed to the understanding of the rich and complex maritime heritage of the Sainte-Marie island and its importance for the cultural identity of the people of Madagascar ».
“” We serenity await the lifting of suspension for excavations. Meanwhile, we focus on the imminence and urgency of the rehabilitation of the Betia museum, already started by us in 2015, and put it in international standard, given the number of precious objects that are there ».
And there is much to do with this in mind, in particular participation in the establishment of an independent commission for monitoring and supporting the project as a whole as part of a public-private partnership.
This project aims to preserve heritage and strengthening museum capacities through education, training and professionalization. The project also aims to improve the museum’s financial capacity, the development of technological infrastructure and conservation equipment, not to mention the training of community members for the safeguarding of recovered artifacts, among others. “” The embellishment of the museum and its immediate storefront (port, swimming pool and garden) by us will promote the inscription of the Church of Ambodifotatra, which is underway to be listed as World Heritage He ends.
Collected by Hanitra Andria