Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike
Senior Reporter
ZIMBABWE has digitised more than 8 000 archaeological site records as part of an ongoing programme to preserve the country’s cultural heritage, improve protection of historical sites and make heritage information more accessible for research, conservation and tourism development.
The digitisation initiative involves converting paper-based records, maps, photographs and site information into electronic databases that can be securely stored, easily accessed and protected from loss or deterioration.
It also supports the monitoring and management of heritage sites through modern technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping and digital cataloguing.
The programme is being implemented through a partnership with the Mapping Africa Endangered Archaeological Sites and Monuments Programme (MAEASaM) following the renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Pretoria.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Ambassador Raphael Faranisi said significant progress had been made in preserving archaeological and museum records through digital technologies.
“Digitisation of archaeological site records through an international partnership with the Mapping Africa Endangered Archaeological Sites and Monuments Programme is ongoing,” he said.
“So far, 8 240 out of the 8 454 archaeological site records have been digitised, with the project set to continue after a recent renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Pretoria.
“Under the digital cataloguing of museum collections through the web-based collection management system, so far, 6 880 archaeological and ethnographic objects have been captured in the pilot phase of the project.
“Then, a geographical information system mapping of monuments and archaeological sites is also in progress and digital photography is being done as per International Council of Museums standards,” he said.
Amb Faranisi said the digitisation programme also includes the development of an electronic inventory system to document museum collections.
He said approximately 300 000 archaeological objects had so far been entered into the electronic inventory out of a total collection of 4 568 438 objects.
“There is need to upscale electronic inventory and 3D imaging recording of objects will commence as soon as National Museums has received the 3D imaging equipment from the French Embassy.
“These developments have enabled museums to make part of their collections accessible online,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary said the programme was, however, facing several challenges, including inadequate server storage capacity, limited digital equipment such as computers, cameras and scanners, as well as a shortage of digital preservation specialists.
He said there was also a need to strengthen strategies that promote cultural tourism and community participation in heritage conservation.
“The museums promote cultural tourism through heritage interpretation programmes, educational models, cultural festivals, heritage trails and collaboration with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority.
“World Heritage sites such as Great Zimbabwe, Khami and Matobo Hills remain key tourism assets attracting both domestic and international visitors.
“Community participation initiatives include heritage committees around these areas, community guides, traditional custodianship arrangements for some of these sites and cultural entrepreneurship projects,” he said.
The digitisation programme is expected to strengthen the preservation of Zimbabwe’s archaeological and cultural heritage while improving public access to historical information and supporting research, education and tourism development.
