The problem of archaeological site protection and management in the lake Nakuru basin, Kenya

Abstract

This research seeks to address the problem of archaeological site and data protection, management and destruction in the Lake Nakuru basin, Kenya. The research was done on selected sites including Kariandusi, Hyrax Hill, Lanet and Njoro River Cave. The methods of data collection include

observation and recording, interviewing, photography and use of secondary materials in form of hooks and publications on the sites. The results of the research show that while the government has put up legislative provisions for the protection of archaeological sites and their contents, many of them are threatened with destruction. The research also indicates that archaeological public education is underdeveloped. The research indicates that development projects like agriculture, mining activities, construction of roads and railways, industrialisation, powerlines etc have negative impacts on the environment that also comprise archaeological materials Natural factors also, for example excessive temperatures and soil erosion lead to destruction of some artifacts and features Roots of plants and burrowing animals contribute a lot in the wearing away of features and general destruction of the landscape. This are the main factors contributing to archaeological site destruction Recommendations on how archaeological resources can be better protected have been well documented. As a result of this research, it is recommended that stringent measures should be put in place by the responsible authorities towards better protection of archaeological resources not only in the Lake Nakuru basin but also in Kenya as a whole