Community archaeology and heritage in coastal and Western Kenya

Abstract

We have conducted research on the histories of slaving in Kenya, the growth and demise of urban centres along the Kenya coast, and the origins of inter-ethnic conflict and warfare in the Mount Elgon region since 1986. Our engagement with Swahili and Bukusu peoples of Kenya has blossomed into strong bonds of friendship and trust. We are fully aware that what we write has been and continues to be a collaborative effort between our host communities and ourselves. This paper reports aspects of my experiences and discusses how they have influenced how I approach and interpret the past and balance the often-conflicting perspectives and expectations of stakeholders.