Short Communication: Preservation of Photographs and Audiovisual Materials to Guard Against Collective Amnesia

Abstract

The article discusses the background to collective amnesia in sub Saharan Africa. Colonialism, and both the colonial and post colonial power and political systems are identified as the major proponents of the current collective amnesia. It is argued that the audiovisual heritage which has remained largely untapped or is scattered both within individual nations or has been collected and carried overseas holds the key to collective memory. The current lack of requisite resources for the collection and preservation of this cultural heritage remains a major problem that tends to perpetuate collective amnesia. Major challenges to the mitigation of collective amnesia are discussed. Some recommendations are suggested on how the current situation may be tackled. Archivists have a major role to play in overcoming collective amnesia.

Keywords: African History, Photographs, Audiovisual Materials, Cultural Heritage, Preservation, Collective Amnesia, Collective Memory