‘KFOR and Kosovo +25’ was officially unveiled by the Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Janet Emsley, and is open to the public until 28 February 2026 at Number One Riverside in the town centre. Find Number One Riverside on Google Maps
Produced in partnership with Heartstone and funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund, ‘KFOR and Kosovo +25’ includes over 50 photographs from photojournalist Nick Sidle during the operation’s early stages. The images provide a unique insight into the work of peacekeepers whilst highlighting human stories of the people of Kosova, and the need for such an intervention to take place so they could safeguard lives, homes and re-build ordinary life in extraordinary circumstances. The free exhibition also tells the stories of those involved, including refugees, some of whom were evacuated to Manchester.
The internationally renowned photography exhibition, marking the 25th anniversary of KFOR in Kosova, has opened in Rochdale.
At the launch, the mayor was joined by guests including veteran Paul Davies, who is one of the soldiers pictured in the exhibition, Rabbi Warren Elf, co-leader of the Interfaith Network Manchester and Deputy Lieutenant Rebecca Tarran. Kosovan food was provided by Rina Bujupi, a child refugee from Kosovo, who has set up her home in Manchester.
Sitakumari, director of Heartstone, who organised the original access presented the background to the exhibition and said it’s about seeing stories from different perspectives:
“In 1999, when the war happened in Kosovo, there was a need to tell a more balanced story. I was able to get access for Nick Sidle to join several regiments that were part of KFOR and it was about telling the human story. He brought back a story nobody else had. It wasn’t harrowing, it was a story of people living after the war, about resilience and hope, challenging commonly held perceptions. For visitors today it’s a fascinating look along the boundaries between photojournalism and art. I think the messages which are just as relevant and perhaps even more so now, are don’t turn a blind eye to hate, we don’t want to be in a world where hate takes people to extremes, and the importance of co-operation. We really can overcome great challenges when working together.”
In 1999, KFOR, the NATO led international peacekeeping force entered Kosova following Resolution 1244 by the United Nations Security Council. 2024 was the 25th anniversary of that deployment. The first UN Security Council Resolution connected to Kosova was passed on 31 March 1998 and the second on 23 September 1998. This was followed by a series of resolutions culminating in Resolution 1244 one year later. The exhibition takes visitors through a visual, non-political, cultural experience into a world where they can empathise with those of different backgrounds, understand the commonality of human experience, why the issues need to be addressed, the need for peacekeeping forces and the refugee experience.
Veteran Caen Matthews views the exhibition, which is open until 28 February 2026.
Councillor Janet Emsley, who is also the council’s lead member for the Armed Forces said:
“This exhibition is about community and cohesion, people coming and working together towards peace. We have such a diverse community in Rochdale, and I do hope to people of all ages will take the time to come and see it.”
During the evening Paul Davies spoke candidly about his time stationed in Kosovo. This was followed by councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation, thanking Heartstone and everyone who has helped bring the exhibition to Rochdale.
Councillor Sue Smith speaking during the launch of KFOR and Kosovo +25 at Number One Riverside, Rochdale.
Councillor Smith said:
“Over the next few weeks we look forward to welcoming our diverse communities to explore the exhibition and reflect on the things that are so relevant in today’s world. It’s another highlight during our special year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture.”
The exhibition in Rochdale is being led by Rochdale Borough Council and Rochdale Development Agency, funded by The National Heritage Lottery Fund, Arts Council England and the Flexible Fund. It is open 6 days a week, Monday to Friday 9am–5pm (6pm on a Thursday and Friday; and Saturday 10am–3pm).
‘KFOR and Kosovo +25’ is part of a spectacular line up of festivals, live performances, exhibitions and art during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26. The title, awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, celebrates the town’s rich history, creativity, talent and diverse arts scene.
