Managing the Balance: Ecological Pressures and Heritage Resources in Rungwe District, Southern Highlands of Tanzania

摘要

Rungwe districtin Mbeya region is amongst the many areas in Tanzania which until recently haveremained terra incognita in terms of ecological and archaeological research. Systematic archaeological investigations,based on heritage management and conservation have not been undertaken. In due regard,we decided to carry out the first systematic survey, documentation and recordingof the heritage resources of this district. Our investigations emphasized publicparticipation in the management and conservation of heritage resources with theinvolvement of local people the central focus. We were also motivated by the desireto launch community outreach programmes and establish the “Cultural-Ecological Researchand Scientific Information Centre” in Masoko-Kisiba Ward. There were several meetingswith the local people and the village officials to discuss plans. It was decidedthat the establishment of the deemed scientific and information centre would abidewith the existing conservation laws in order to effectively address the strategiesfor protection, conservation and management of both natural and cultural heritageresources.