Awareness of preservation of historic buildings and sites in Ghana: the case of residents in Kumasi

Abstract

PurposeThis study focuses on historic buildings and site preservation (HBSP), which forms part of cultural heritage amidst rampant demolishing and seeming neglect of such heritage in Ghana. The purpose of this study is to assess public awareness of the importance of HBSP in Kumasi.Design/methodology/approachThe study combines qualitative and quantitative research methods. Primary data were collected through questionnaires and interviews based on a purposive sampling technique. Respondents were residents of Kumasi.FindingsThe study revealed that awareness of the importance of HBSP is dependent on the demographic variables. The young generation below 30 years seems more aware of the importance of HBSP.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited by the fact that respondents were not willing to reveal income levels. Laws governing cultural heritage, including HBSP at the MMDAs, was not studied in detail and could be an area for further research.Practical implicationsThis study brings out the need to be aware of the importance of HBSP and train staff to enforce laws governing HBSP in six metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies (MMDAs) as part of Ghana's urban regeneration. This study further raises awareness among residents for sustainable architectural heritage preservation in Ghana.Originality/valueThe concept of HBSP is not popular in Ghana. This academic paper apparently assesses the level of awareness of the importance of HBSP among residents in Kumasi with an aim to identify and train staff of MMDAs on laws governing HBSP.

Research on Historical Value Evaluation and Protection Strategies of Traditional Courtyards in Yulin Ancient City, Shaanxi Province, China

“…In terms of courtyards layouts, only a very small number of courtyards retain their original forms, while the vast majority of courtyards have lost their original forms and need to be rectified on the overall layout. From the perspective of architecture, the main structures or maintenance structures of most single buildings are damaged, and there are also alterations that are not consistent with the original appearance, and even dangerous houses exist [63][64] . The protection and renovation of historical buildings should focus on maintaining their authenticity, coordinating urban development, and protecting their uniqueness [65][66] .…”