| dc.description.abstract | This paper explored the attitude of the local community towards NMK's
conservation activity in Old Town (Mombasa) and their involvement in the
process.
This study used a variety of research methods based on a longitudinal
survey. The study used key informants, focus groups, and the
questionnaires to collect data on the perspectives, experiences and
aspirations as well as strengths of the community with regard to heritage
conservation.
The research findings show that the local community's awareness and
appreciation of conservation and heritage seems adequate, while, the young
generation particularly shows less understanding, appreciation and interest
in the heritage and its conservation.
The participation level of the community is at low level since the
Conservation Project was unable to plan for and to accommodate people's
participation. It has therefore remained a straight jacket and has pushed on
to predetermined objectives, regardless of whether the local people are on
board or not.
Future conservation work should therefore, move from specialized to
integrated, from lecturing to dialogue, from modern technology to
appropriate technology. More emphasis should be placed upon the potential
of 'self help' initiatives, developed in collaboration with community member,
than on the introduction simply of outreach programs by National
parastatals like NMK. | en |
