The Involvement of Practitioners in World Heritage Management in Burkina Faso

A key finding from this study is that the involvement of local practitioners, such as blacksmiths and community members, significantly enhances the sustainable conservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Ruins of Loropéni in Burkina Faso. The research demonstrates that the integration of tangible and intangible cultural heritage—including sacred representations and traditional knowledge—strengthens endogenous conservation practices. However, balancing these local approaches with international standards and administrative requirements poses a persistent challenge. The study analyzes archaeological sites and the Royal Court of Tiébélé to explore how practitioner identity, site sanctity, and structured management committees contribute to heritage preservation.

Léonce, M. K. (2026). The Involvement of Practitioners in World Heritage Management in Burkina Faso. Heritage Authenticity in Theory and Practice in Africa, 181–190. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-92-2619-1_13