Cultural Heritage Preservation, Intergenerational Identity Continuity, Indigenous Communities
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/ijcrs.4055Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the cultural heritage preservation and intergenerational identity continuity among indigenous communities in East Africa.
Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low-cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
Findings: The findings indicated that cultural heritage preservation plays a significant role in promoting intergenerational identity continuity among indigenous communities in East Africa through indigenous language preservation, traditional ceremonies, oral history transmission, and cultural education. Findings suggest that family mentorship, community participation, and indigenous knowledge transmission strengthen cultural identity retention, traditional value continuity, and cultural belonging among younger generations. However, modernization, urbanization, and changing lifestyles threaten the sustainability of these cultural practices, highlighting the need for community-led preservation initiatives and intergenerational cultural education.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Cultural transmission theory, social identity theory, collective memory theory may be used to anchor future studies on the cultural heritage preservation and intergenerational identity continuity among indigenous communities in East Africa. The study is expected to provide practical insights for indigenous community leaders, cultural organizations, educational institutions, museums, and development practitioners seeking to strengthen cultural heritage preservation and intergenerational identity continuity in East Africa. The study is expected to provide empirical evidence that can inform cultural heritage protection policies, indigenous language preservation strategies, and inclusive educational frameworks across East African countries.
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