This report presents a detailed exploration of the state of Audio Visual Archives in Nairobi and by extension, Kenya, taking us through the complexities of preserving and digitizing our cultural heritage that is stored in legacy audiovisual formats.
Conducted over a period of four months, the research delves into the multifaceted landscape of archival practices, drawing insights from field visits, stakeholder consultations, and academic literature reviews.
At the heart of this study lies the recognition of the profound impact of socio-political factors on archival practices. The report spotlights how the lingering legacies of colonialism continue to influence the archival landscape, with many institutions grappling with narratives framed through a colonial lens. Additionally, we see the absence of clear protocols, leading to subjective decision-making among archivists, thus resulting in biased representations of history.
It is important to acknowledge the transformative power of audiovisual collections and the pivotal role they play in preserving our shared heritage for generations to come. As Maya Angelou so eloquently put it,
“History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again.”
By preserving and making these archives accessible, we are not only safeguarding the stories of the past, but also ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to learn from them.
Preservation decisions driven by demand or interest rather than deliberate evaluations of the material’s significance create gaps in Kenya’s national memory and amplify the interests and ideologies of a select few.
Recommendations
Our recommendations are an offering on how to navigate the complex audiovisual archival sector, leverage the identified opportunities, while upholding ethical standards.
Advocacy Work
A healthier AV archival sector can be catalysed by a more understanding and supportive citizenry, government, and heritage sector.
AV Working Group/Consortium
Forming an Audio-Visual (AV) Working Group or Consortium can effectively address the multifaceted challenges within the sector.
Digitisation Centre
Establishing a digitisation centre in Kenya presents a promising solution to ensure the sustainable preservation of collections while retaining control over them. This centre would serve as a hub of expertise and digital infrastructure and resources; offering guidance and support to institutions throughout the digitization process.
Capacity Building
Capacity building within the archival sector is essential for overcoming challenges and maximising opportunities in the digital era.
