| dc.description.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 | en_US |
