Spatial information technology and heritage management in the southern Gauteng province, South Africa

Abstract

Development is one of the major factors that destroys heritage sites in Africa. The destruction of heritage, such as pre-colonial stone walled structures (SWS), has often gone unnoticed due to the lack of technologies to help researchers fully understand the nature of the damage. The use of spatial information technologies in recent years has made it possible for researchers to account for the effects of developmental damage on heritage structures such as SWS. These technologies also assist in planning the future conservation of heritage. SWS are part of the pre-colonial history of southern Africa. Effective conservation of SWS arises from a comprehensive understanding of the causes of destruction and devising strategies that eliminate and reduce the risk of developmental damage. Here, spatial information technologies present useful tools that improve the understanding of the impact of development on heritage sites. Understanding this impact will improve heritage legislation, policy and conservation in South African.

Firstly, the study used Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to test the effectiveness of Cultural Resources Management (CRM). The study revealed evidence for lack of proper CRM. Secondly, the study used interviews to assess awareness about SWS and their destruction. The general public expressed their lack of awareness, while the custodial communities revealed their knowledge of SWS and their disgruntlements over their exclusion from the management of this heritage. Thirdly, the study looked for strategies to improve heritage awareness in the area. Educational strategies, social media, Google Maps, 3D technologies among others were suggested to improve awareness.