Development Projects Affect Heritage Management

Heritage management refers to the conservation and preservation of cultural and natural heritage, such as historical sites, monuments, and traditions for future generations. This management can indeed be significantly impacted by development projects, particularly when economic interests outweigh the consideration for preservation. In Zimbabwe, an instance that exemplifies this is the development project undertaken at the Hwange National Park, which is the country's largest game reserve. It was reported in 2020 that a Chinese coal mining project was going to take place in the park, potentially resulting in habitat loss, noise disturbance, reduced water quality and availability, putting the park's fauna and flora at risk. While the development project might have provided a boost to the country's economy, it posed a significant threat to heritage management by disrupting the natural heritage site. Another example is the Victoria Falls Hotel, a classic example of colonial architecture and a heritage site that stands as a symbol of the country's colonial history. Ongoing development projects focusing on modernization and commercialization can potentially endanger the architectural integrity and historical value of such structures. That being said, development projects do not necessarily always negatively impact heritage management. Responsible and sustainable developments can actually support and enhance heritage management. Take the Great Zimbabwe Monument, the ancient city which stands as a testament to a culture dating back to the Late Iron Age. The site has been maintained over the years, attracting tourists, and any development around the site has been carried out with strict stipulations to preserve and protect it. Effective heritage management therefore is not solely dependent on development projects. Other aspects such as law enforcement, public education, funding, and policy development also play crucial roles. It is essential to enforce appropriate measures that prevent destruction during the execution of such projects, creating a balance between heritage preservation and contemporary development.