When theory meets praxis – enhancing heritage management through practice-led research at Great Zimbabwe World Heritage property

A collaborative research agenda for Great Zimbabwe World Heritage property, developed by academics and practitioners, identifies critical gaps in heritage management. The study highlights the need to shift focus from physical conservation to intangible cultural heritage, spirituality, and community engagement, addressing long-standing challenges like governance fragmentation and environmental sustainability. Using the UNESCO Enhancing Our Heritage Toolkit 2.0, the research team mapped site attributes, governance structures, and local values through online workshops, revealing how past practices have neglected spiritual aspects and lacked coordination among stakeholders. The agenda proposes four thematic research strands to guide future efforts, emphasizing a more holistic approach to heritage management.

Thondhlana, T. P., Mukwende, T., Machiridza, L. H., Musindo, T. T., Tevera, G., & Maduro, N. (2023). When theory meets praxis – enhancing heritage management through practice-led research at Great Zimbabwe World Heritage property. Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, 13(3), 428–446. https://doi.org/10.1108/jchmsd-08-2022-0149