The conservation and preservation challenges and threats in the development of cultural heritage: The case of the Kawo Amado Kella Defensive Wall (KAKDW) in Wolaita, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

The paper is focused on the analysis of the state and risks to Kawo Amado Kella's defensive wall cultural legacy in Wolaita, Ethiopia, and the effects of development project priority, modernity, religion, and globalization. The paper identified the current framework of documentation and conservation policies applied to cultural heritage. Value-based conservation strategies are stated as essential for sustainable heritage management. An efficient management of the defensive wall is stated as necessary to conserve, maintain, and restore heritage structures from any natural and manmade problems. The study used a qualitative ethnographic research approach. Purposive and snowball sampling procedures were utilized in this investigation. There were a total of 171 interviews conducted during all stages of the process. In total, there were 64 women. By being conserved, restored, and preserved, the cultural legacy of Kawo Amado Kella's defensive wall not only helped to preserve an ancient civilization but also contributed to the development of a distinct national and international culture.