Change and Adaptation: An analysis of the use and management of Chiremba National Monument during the Covid-19 pandemic era
- Author
- Chipanga, Christabel. R
- Title
- Change and Adaptation: An analysis of the use and management of Chiremba National Monument during the Covid-19 pandemic era
- Abstract
-
The study examines the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic towards the use and management of
heritage sites in Zimbabwe. Some of the objectives that the research aimed at exploring the
changes that were influenced by the pandemic in the use and management of heritage sites. It
also aimed at understanding how the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe
(NMMZ-state heritage managing authority) has adapted to the operational changes brought
by the Covid-19 pandemic. The Chiremba Balancing rocks located in Epworth is used as a
case study to illuminate issues understudy. Purposive sampling was used to carry out the study.
The study found out that the Covid-19 resulted in the closure of heritage sites, changing of
working schemes, visitor statistics decreased, maintenance staff not carrying out its duties,
proposed projects on the site were placed on hold and human-induced threats occurred during
the strict lockdowns that were once placed. To mitigate challenges brought by the pandemic,
the management team National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe adhered to the World
Health Organization (WHO) regulations on Covid -19, new working schedules were
introduced, and government intervened some projects that were proposed before Covid. The
study recommends Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences under NMNZ to include community
participation in the management of Chiremba National Monument, again the NMNZ must
prepare a disaster management plan for future disease pandemics that might come after Covid-
19 pandemic.
- Date
- 2023
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Change and Adaptation
- Covid-19
- National Monument
- Supervisor
- Dr. Sagiya. M
