Cultural Heritage Preservation in Digital West Africa: A Survey Study

Cultural heritage in West Africa is increasingly threatened by rapid urbanization and digital transformation. In Mozambique, traditional cultural practices are facing significant challenges as younger generations adopt modern technology at a faster rate. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 participants comprising museum curators, traditional storytellers, and religious leaders. Data were collected through structured interviews and focus group discussions. The findings reveal a significant decline in the use of digital tools for cultural documentation (45%) and preservation (38%), with younger generations preferring modern communication methods over traditional ones. While the integration of technology is seen as beneficial, it poses challenges to preserving cultural heritage. Recommendations are provided to integrate digital platforms more effectively into cultural preservation strategies. Develop culturally sensitive digital tools and training programmes for cultural practitioners. Encourage collaboration between digital experts and traditional knowledge holders.