An evaluation of the conservation of a swahili town a case study of Lamu world heritage site

Abstract

This research study sought to evaluate how a Conser vation plan based on the International Conservation Charters that has not be en adequately contextualised and adapted to local conditions can lead to a sustainab le conservation of the cultural fabric that reflects the community’s identity. Using Lamu as a case study, the study employed a combination of research methods including a desk top historical survey review, development approval record review, an actual sampl e survey and measured drawing exercises together with key informant interviews, f ocused group discussions and actual on site observations. The study found out that the current Lamu World Heritage Site Conservation Plan is not responsive to the key symb olic elements that not only make up the historic fabric of the world heritage site but also are the bearers of cultural and symbolic meanings. The study further found out that the plan lacked strategies for the documentation; updating and integration of the indi genous building processes into the conservation process so as to better express the cu ltural identity. The research study therefore recommends that the current Conservation Plan be reviewed so as to contextualise it by first, anchoring the plan throu gh the protection of the key symbolic elements. Secondly to actively integrate the indige nous building technologies in the conservation process and to follow this up with an ongoing research aimed at modernising them so as to improve their viability a nd suitability to guarantee sustainability of the conservation process through a conserved fabric reflective of the society’s cultural identity