The influence of socio-demographic factors on the significance of heritage resources

Abstract

Though several studies have assessed the significance of heritage resources, they are generally exotic relative to Africa with very few examining the roles of socio-demographic characteristics in the levels of significance residents attach to heritage resources. This study explores the intricate relationship between socio-demographic factors and the significance attached to heritage resources in Ghana’s Upper East Region. By employing a mixed-methods approach, we uncover how variables such as age, gender, education, and religion influence perceptions of both tangible and intangible heritage. Our findings reveal that tangible heritage, like architecture and agriculture, is often valued more highly than intangible heritage, such as festivals and folklore. It was also found that males generally viewed almost all heritage resources as more significant compared to females, except traditional architecture which was perceived as more significant by a larger proportion of females. Furthermore, education showed a negative correlation with the significance of tangible heritage resources while the elderly were more likely to have a positive perception of heritage resources than the youth. These disparities underscore a need for targeted conservation strategies that consider community-specific socio-demographic dynamics. The study’s insights aim to inform sustainable heritage tourism development, ensuring that heritage resources are preserved and leveraged for economic and social benefits. Through this research, we contribute to the broader discourse on heritage conservation and tourism sustainability, advocating for a nuanced understanding of local contexts to foster inclusive and effective heritage management.