Cultural Heritage Preservation Practices in Digital Age within West African Societies of Ethiopia,

Cultural heritage preservation in digital age has become increasingly important as traditional methods face challenges due to technological advancements and environmental factors. A qualitative approach was employed through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders including museum curators, archaeologists, and local community leaders. Data collection focused on documenting practices used for preserving artifacts, manuscripts, and oral traditions in a digital format. Interviews revealed that while digital preservation technologies are widely adopted, there is a significant proportion (60%) of traditional methods still being practiced to ensure authenticity and cultural continuity. The most common themes were the use of QR codes for documentation and community engagement initiatives. The study concludes with an understanding of how digital tools complement rather than replace traditional preservation techniques in preserving West African cultural heritage accurately and authentically. Recommendations include integrating digital technologies into existing frameworks while maintaining the integrity of cultural practices. Collaboration between stakeholders is crucial for effective implementation.