Heritage Management Problems of Megalithic Stones in Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia Observations from Tutu Fela and Chelba Tututi Sites

Gedeo, Ethiopia, hosts Africa's largest concentration of megalithic stones, sites of significant historical, archaeological, symbolic, artistic, and commemorative value that could drive local tourism. However, these sites face severe management challenges, including community unawareness about their importance, socio-cultural shifts due to Christian expansion, poor tourism governance lacking legal fee collection, weak protection efforts by local authorities, and insufficient recording or promotion activities. The study highlights the urgent need for public awareness campaigns, continuous documentation, legal frameworks to support heritage management, and national recognition of these sites to preserve their cultural legacy.

Ebabey, T. (2022). HERITAGE MANAGEMENT PROBLEMS OF MEGALITHIC STONES IN GEDEO ZONE, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA OBSERVATIONS FROM TUTU FELA AND CHELBA TUTUTI SITES. Journal Sampurasun : Interdisciplinary Studies for Cultural Heritage, 8(2), 74–90. https://doi.org/10.23969/sampurasun.v8i2.6266