An innovative framework for integrated management of cultural heritage: a case of Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority
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Date
2024-11
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University of Fort Hare
Abstract
The National Heritage Resources ACT (NHRA) No 25 of 1999 establishes a system for integrated management, assigning responsibilities to heritage authorities across various governance levels. In the Eastern Cape province, the provincial heritage resources authority (PHRA) faced governance and operational challenges in the period between 2012 and 2020, leading to public concern from the business community and political fraternity. Limited information is available on the authorities’ performance and functionality history. Therefore, this study investigated factors influencing the PHRA’s optimal functionality. Using a non-probability sampling technique, a qualitative case study design was utilised to identify the necessary sample, and data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with individuals from seven purposefully selected entities. Secondary sources such as published and unpublished documents were analysed to supplement primary data and to ensure data was exhausted to provide rich descriptions. Data was analysed using thematic and content analysis. The findings reveal that cultural heritage management is affected by governance, requisite competencies, financial resources and infrastructure. Based on the findings, an innovative framework was proposed for the integrated management of cultural heritage in the Eastern Cape province.
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Keywords
South African Heritage Resources Agency, Cultural property -- Protection -- South Africa