Heritages and their conservation in the gibe region (Southwest Ethiopia): a history, ca. 1800-1980

Abstract

This study attempts to reconstruct A History of Heritages and their Conservation in the Gibe region (Southwestern Ethiopia).1800 –1980. The researcher purposefully selected the title as much has not been researched on the topic. This is one the many neglected topics in the Ethiopian historiography. The researcher has used both primary and secondary sources, and the collected data were analyzed using qualitative research method. The qualitative method provides rich and detailed analyses and descriptions for a history research. The primary sources of data were gathered directly from the field work through direct observation; interview and photography Secondary sources include oral traditions and the existing literature that have been collected over a long period of time from different areas. Sources are evaluated for their reliability and authenticity. The researcher found out that though the Gibe region, present Jimma Zone, has had a number of heritages, they could not be well preserved or conserved. This is true for both manmade or cultural and natural heritages of the society in the region. The study also finds out that many of manmade and natural heritages are in bad shape and they deserve proper and immediate interference. The study has tried to recommend possible solutions for this deficiency so that heritages will be maintained for posterity as they could serve many purposes including maintaining up of one’s’ identity, tourists attraction and for the development of the region and the country in general