Preserving Digital Cultural Heritage in Resource-Limited Environments: An Ethnographic Study from Ethiopia

Digital cultural heritage preservation in resource-limited environments faces unique challenges, particularly in regions with limited technological infrastructure and access to digital resources. The study employed participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to gather data from a sample of communities across different regions in Ethiopia. Community members reported that traditional oral storytelling techniques were used alongside digital platforms to preserve cultural narratives. A significant proportion (60%) of the community participants utilised mobile phones for recording stories, highlighting an innovative approach to preserving heritage within resource constraints. This study underscores the importance of integrating local knowledge and practices in digital preservation efforts to enhance their effectiveness and sustainability. Policy recommendations include fostering partnerships between technology developers and cultural institutions to ensure that technological solutions are culturally appropriate and accessible.