The Impact of development projects on archaeological heritage : a case study of selected coastal sites and monuments in Kenya

Abstract

Major development projects have taken place along the coast of Kenya since independence. Hotels, seaside resorts, roads and other public amenities including housing schemes serving the coast region have expanded considerably. Archaeological heritage and other cultural resources have been lost in the wake of these developments and expanding human settlements. These resources have been destroyed and/or exposed to vandalism. This study aims at finding an interface between development projects and archaeological heritage management. This could ensure harmonious coexistence and possibly better management of the archaeological and cultural heritage. Using simple random sampling method and personal judgment of the researcher, four sites were selected along the coast of Kenya for this study. The research findings were that development projects as well as the local community contribute significantly to the destruction and loss of archaeological materials and historical sites. The sites which still survive face a high risk of destruction.