Archaeologist Calls for Preservation of Karonga's Historical Sites

The Cultural and Museum Centre, established in November 2004, showcases exhibitions on human history, natural history, and local cultural heritage.

Senior Chief Karonga addresses the gathered guests

KARONGA, Malawi—Traditional leaders and museum officials gathered Tuesday to address the growing threat to archaeological sites in Karonga. Local authorities urged conservation efforts amid increasing population pressures, writes Lusekero Mhango.

Malani Chinula, Principal Archaeologist in the Department of Museums and Monuments, highlighted the critical need to protect the district's rich archaeological heritage during the 20th-anniversary celebrations of the Karonga Museum.

"Karonga is rich in artefacts, including sites where fossilized dinosaur bones were discovered. These must be preserved, but due to population growth, people are farming and building on these sites," Chinula said.

The archaeologist emphasized the importance of local community involvement in site preservation, stressing that residents, rather than foreign tourists, are key to maintaining the sites' cultural significance.

Senior Chief Karonga, representing Paramount Chief Kyungu, encouraged increased engagement with younger generations.

He urged museum management to develop partnerships with schools to bring students to the museum regularly.

"The museum belongs to the community, and children are its future," the chief said.

He suggested that such educational initiatives would enhance students' knowledge and interest in local artefacts.

Professor Fredman Schrenk from Frankfurt University, a board member of the Ulaha Foundation, highlighted the museum's potential for tourism development.

The Cultural and Museum Centre, established in November 2004, showcases exhibitions on human history, natural history, and local cultural heritage.

The museum's efforts aim to preserve Karonga's rich archaeological landscape, which includes significant fossil discoveries and historical artefacts that provide insights into the region's prehistoric and cultural past.

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