Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012)
Cultural Heritage Conservation in Digital West Africa: A Survey of Burkina Faso Perspectives
Abstract
Cultural heritage in Burkina Faso is a rich tapestry of oral traditions, historical sites, and artistic expressions that are vital to national identity and social cohesion. However, with rapid digitalization, these cultural assets face unprecedented challenges such as loss through obsolescence and misrepresentation online. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving an online survey with a sample size of 300 participants across various regions of Burkina Faso. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify common themes and stakeholder roles. Survey results indicate that while 85% of respondents support digitization for preservation purposes, there is significant concern about authenticity and ownership issues when cultural heritage is presented online. Stakeholders identified as crucial include government officials, local communities, and digital media professionals. The survey reveals a nuanced understanding of the role of digital technology in cultural heritage conservation but highlights ongoing challenges that require collaborative efforts to ensure equitable access and preservation. Policy recommendations suggest fostering public-private partnerships for digital preservation initiatives, implementing guidelines on authenticity and ownership, and enhancing community engagement through education and training programmes.
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