Manifestation and Management of Cultural Heritage: An Analysis of the Old Towns of Kenyan Coastal Region

Abstract

The study examined the current manifestation of intangible and tangible cultural heritage of old towns of Lamu and Mombasa in the coastal region of Kenya, with a view of evaluating management efforts by heritage managers in the region. An exploratory research design with a mixed method approach was used to generate new ideas and assumptions regarding how cultural heritage is manifested. A sample size of 110 participants from both towns was selected through multistage cluster sampling, out of which 15 heritage managers, 40 community household leaders and 55 community elders were selected using purposive and snowball techniques. The study utilized semi structured interview guides, photography and observation as data collection methods. Descriptive analysis, content analysis-specifically attribution and designation analysis were used to analyze data. The study established that cultural heritage in the old towns is manifested through symbols, values and artefacts and architecture. Among the most evident manifestations in both old towns are in the form of wedding ceremonies, burial rituals, and limited cultural festivals especially during key religious practices Manifested architectural heritage undergoing shocks is restored for tourism purposes. However, intangible heritage is preserved, not for tourism purposes but as part of local’s way of life and as dictated by cultural values such as religion. Most organizations concerned with management of cultural heritage recognize its importance and have adapted reconstruction and restoration methods of tangible heritage especially old architecture. Among preferred recommendations were that tourism as the main economic activity in the region should be developed to benefit cultural heritage. The article advocates promoting resilience of heritage through gainful economic activities such as tourism to promote its posterity.