Gilbert K. Wafula - The Impact of Cross-Disciplinary Conservation on Social Development 16th & 17th May at the UCL Institute of Archaeology

Gilbert K. Wafula (University of Nairobi, Kenya)

Archaeological heritage and public benefits: effectiveness of Kenya’s legal administrative and policy framework 

Members of the general public in many African countries share persistent social and economic challenges including poverty, illiteracy and disease. Yet, Africa possesses resources of diverse nature that could positively impact people's livelihoods. Archaeological heritage is one of these resources. The issue is who this heritage benefits and how. In a changing world where citizens are increasingly recognizing and appreciating democracy and human rights, the moral and legitimate rights of ordinary citizens in exploiting their heritage cannot be taken for granted. This paper is aimed at specifically addressing the effectiveness of Kenya's legal, administrative and policy framework in addressing public interests and needs in the exploitation of archaeological and related cultural heritage.