The Philosophical Dilemma of Conserving the African Heritage: A Case Study of the Treatment of the Kondoa Rock Art World Heritage Site in Tanzania

A philosophical dilemma emerges in conserving Africa's heritage, exemplified by the Kondoa Rock Art World Heritage Site in Tanzania. This study reveals that local communities view rock art as a dynamic cultural construct, emphasizing intangibility, change, and continuity, contrasting sharply with modern conservation principles of materiality, permanency, and durability. Through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and non-participant observation involving 37 participants, the research highlights the need for an integrated approach that blends traditional and modern conservation tenets while prioritizing community engagement. This dual perspective challenges conventional conservation practices and underscores the significance of cultural context in heritage preservation.

Kisusi, R. L., & Lwoga, N. B. (2021). The Philosophical Dilemma of Conserving the African Heritage: A Case Study of the Treatment of the Kondoa Rock Art World Heritage Site in Tanzania. Conservation and Management of Archaeological Sites, 23(5-6), 221–234. https://doi.org/10.1080/13505033.2022.2160074