Preserving Africa’s Archaeological Heritage: Intern Experiences at the MAEASaM Project

The MAEASaM project is dedicated to building capacity by training interns in various aspects of digitising heritage sites. This initiative aims to preserve invaluable archaeological data while equipping interns with essential skills in data management and digitisation. Here, Cheruiyot Victor Colson and Movin Kiprotich, two MAEASaM interns working at the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) in Nairobi, share their perspectives.

My journey in the practical aspect of archaeology began in July 2023, a month after finishing my undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Arts (Archaeology) from Kenyatta University. This was a dream come true considering that I had spent most of my years at the university dealing with the theoretical aspects of archaeology. The NMK in Nairobi, renowned for its vast collection of archaeological data and materials, became my primary focus. I applied as an attaché and was accepted, marking the beginning of three months of rigorous training and learning.

During my time at NMK, I was privileged to access and interact with an extensive array of data that had always driven my passion for archaeology. I currently work with the British Institute in Eastern Africa (BIEA) on the Mapping Africa’s Endangered Archaeological Sites and Monuments (MAEASaM) project. This opportunity has allowed me to engage deeply with both the data and the professionals involved in the project. The guidance and support from Angela Kabiru and Dr Stefania Merlo have been invaluable, providing a welcoming environment where concerns are addressed, and everyone feels heard and needed.

My role involves scanning and digitising survey forms, field notes, site cards, accession cards, and other field documents. This task has not only been significant in preserving invaluable data but also in enhancing my skills in Microsoft Excel and other digital tools. The project has offered a platform for learning and understanding the intricate relationships between various archaeological materials, their significance, and how they complement each other in providing comprehensive information.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my experience has been learning from the different sections within the Earth Sciences department at NMK. The palynology department, in particular, has captured my interest and captivated me with its approach to studying human ecology through various proxies such as diatoms, phytoliths, macrofossils, pollen, and charcoal. This exposure has inspired me to pursue further studies, including a master’s and doctorate, to continue contributing to the field of archaeology.

The MAEASaM project has demonstrated the value of inclusivity and a collaborative work environment, ensuring maximum productivity and fostering a sense of community among team members. It has been a wonderful opportunity to witness the beauty and importance of archaeology, motivating me to achieve further in my career.

My name is Movin Kiprotich, and I am one of the interns working with the MAEASaM project. The project aims to identify and document endangered archaeological heritage sites across eight African countries, sharing this information to help protect these invaluable resources.

In Kenya, I have had the privilege of working closely with the NMK and BIEA over the past three months. My primary tasks involve scanning and digitising archaeological information, including survey forms, catalog data, and accession and site cards. These documents are crucial for understanding and preserving the historical significance of various sites and monuments across Africa. By digitising this information, we ensure its long-term preservation and accessibility for researchers, scholars, and the public.

The diversity of archaeological sites I have encountered during my time with the project is astounding, ranging from ancient settlements and rock art sites to burial grounds and ceremonial areas. Each site offers a unique glimpse into the cultures, traditions, and lifestyles of past civilisations. This experience has not only enriched my knowledge of Kenyan history but also honed my skills in archival management, data digitization, and historical documentation.

One of the challenges I have faced is dealing with incomplete or missing information in the archival records. Addressing these gaps requires meticulous attention to detail and collaboration with team members to accurately reconstruct missing data. Despite these challenges, the project has been a tremendous learning opportunity, enabling me to piece together fragmented site information and understand the importance of thorough documentation.

Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree in anthropology at the University of Nairobi, building on my undergraduate studies in history and archaeology at Maseno University. My research interests include understanding human-environment relationships through the analysis of plant fossil remains such as phytoliths. These microscopic plant silica remains can provide insights into past climates, vegetation, and the use of plants by our ancestors, contributing to our understanding of historical human interactions with the environment.

My journey with the MAEASaM project has been incredibly fulfilling and educational. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the preservation of Africa’s rich cultural heritage and look forward to continuing this work in the future. The skills and experiences gained from this project will undoubtedly play a significant role in my academic and professional development.