Onesmus Kakoi MWATU,Department of Architecture and Built Environment, Technical University of Mombasa

 

Abstract: This paper documents and analyses the legal framework for cultural heritage protection in Kenya from the colonial period to the present. The study relied on literature review and historical data from various sources on cultural heritage legislation in Kenya. Since the legal definition of heritage and its categories was influenced by the colonial experience, which focused on the material aspects of heritage, it is observed that the legal framework for cultural heritage protection has, until 2016, overemphasized elements of tangible heritage. The limited attention given to intangible heritage has implied the exclusion of indigenous perceptions of heritage, a situation which impacts negatively on heritage management.

 

Key words:  Cultural heritage, Legal protection