Archaeology and Heritage Management

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A Study of the Ethiopian National army Museum
(Addis Abeba Universty, 2023-06-01) Bergene Baleso; Kassaye Begashaw (PhD)
Museum history and collection management is one of the important processes for museums to be successful in their mission. It refers to the process of managing museum collections properly and increasing of effectiveness of the museums. It is the systematic mechanisms that regulate the museum collections to play towards the achievement of organizational goals. Ethiopian National Army Museum since its foundation in imperial Haile Selassie has over the years tried to accomplish a lot of objectives in its activities. The overall goal of this thesis is to conduct a study of the National Army Museum and to investigate the history and, functions of Museum documentation and collection management. The research approaches employed include both qualitative and quantitative research. The essential information was gathered from both primary and secondary sources, and it was thoroughly reviewed and interpreted. Questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and observation were used to collect data for this. The primary results are that museum collection management, museum role; discontinuities, representation, legal frameworks, community participation, museum services, and organizational structure fall short of the intended norm set by (ICOM, and ICCROM). This study suggests that museum history and collection management be run and managed by professionals who carry out their duties in accordance with the basic principles of effective museum collection management policy and guidelines. As long as stringent and effective museum policies and guidelines are implemented, the National Army Museum will eventually be able to build proper standards of museum history and collection administration. As a result, the Ethiopian Army troops and the general public receive suitable, effective, and goal-oriented service.
Accessibility of Museum Collections for Visitors with Disability: A Case of Three Selected Museum in Addis Ababa
(Addis Abeba Universty, 2022-02-01) Abrham Tesfaye; Kassaye Begashaw (PhD)
Throughout the world, the cultural and educational roles of museums are growing. But many museums do not carefully consider people with disabilities as their visitors, for their buildings and communication accessibilities are very limited in designing museums for all people. However, in this regard, the overall conditions of the Ethiopian museums are hardly studied. Having this in mind, this study adopted case study research design and explored three museums found in Addis Ababa, namely Ethiopian National Museum, Institute of Ethiopian Studies Museum and Addis Ababa Museum, in relation to their accessibilities to disabled visitors, and compliance with universal design principles targeting disabled museum visitors. To this end, the research employed a multi-method approach to gather appropriate data, including site survey /observation, interviewing, photographing, analysis of secondary sources directed at gathering facts regarding the experiences and viewpoints of existing museum visitors with disabilities, and museum professionals; multiple aspects of disability access, such as physical accessibility, inclusive exhibition design, and communication accessibility in each selected museum. Consequently, the findings of the research show that the three museums comply reasonably well when it comes to approachability of their buildings. On the other hand, the findings of this study reveal that the facilities and services provided by the three museums investigated were not designed to benefit people with disabilities. The result of the study also shows that the physical contexts of the three museums’ exhibition spaces are not well planned and constructed to satisfy people with disability in terms of learning with convenience. In addition, the research found that the three museums investigated are not fully inclusive in creating a place and environment where the disabled visitors can access museum objects for several purposes, including education. For instance, none of the three museums have provisions for communication in sign language, Braille, tactile representations of some objects to make learning easier for hearing impaired and visually impaired visitors respectively. Thus, the research concludes that the three museums investigated are below average in light of fulfilling the requirements of accessibility guidelines, and being compliant with the Principle of Universal Design. Finally, this research recommends that the stated three museums and their stakeholders should carefully consider what they can do within their own limitations for disabled museum visitors to make each museum ameliorate its physical and communication barriers for disabled visitors and be inclusive. In addition, it is suggested that the three museums should adopt universal design principles, particularly as they relate to accessibility and usability requirements while retrofitting the existing ones.
An Archaeological Investigation on the Significance of the Stelae of Fato, and Aguffi, Sodo District, Central Ethiopia
(Addis Abeba University, 2024-12) Adam Melese; Tekle Hagos (PhD)
This study is an archaeological investigation of the significance of the stelae of Fato and Aguffi located in the Central Ethiopia region of Gurage Zone’s, Sodo district. The study included twenty three stelae from the Aguffi site and sixty-two stelae from the Fato site. Pre-field and fieldwork data acquisition techniques were used in the study; for example, fieldwork data acquisition techniques included physical observation, measuring, documenting, describing, interviewing, and taking pictures of each stelae was conducted in May 2024. Pre-field data acquisition techniques included reviewing previous research and consulting with experts. I used qualitative and quantitative methodologies to assess the information I collected in the field. A significant number of irregular and clustered stelae that are ascribed to the stelae tradition of the region were identified. Out of the sixty-two stelae of Fato, four of them are clustered, while the remaining ones are found in semi-organized rows. Different types of stelae were identified from both sites, like decorated, irregular, conical, drum, and circular. For analysis, a typological comparison was made with surrounding stelae sites. In addition, the technological comparison reveals that the stelae of the study area appear to be older than the stelae of Tiya. Based on their functional attributes, the Site resembles the funerary practices of the ancient inhabitants of the area. However, the existing context of these sites is deteriorating due to human and natural factors. Therefore, the study concludes by recommending protective measures that should be taken as quickly as possible by the concerned bodies. Keywords: Stelae, Conservation, Clustered, Fato, and Aguffi.
An Inventory of Medeival sites in Addis Ababa and Its Environs
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-11-01) Gosa Bulo; Ayele Tarekegn (PhD) and Timothy Insoll (PhD)
This thesis presents the results of an inventory of 25 sites that are located in Addis Ababa and its environs. These areas yield many sites that hold the history of medieval Ethiopia. The aims of the present study are to identify the locations and types of the sites, in order to help reconstruct the history of the medieval period of Ethiopia, to make up a map showing the distribution of the sites, to prepare a site gazetteer, to compare the surveyed sites with broadly contemporary sites, that are located in northern Ethiopia, investigated by Dr. Alebachew in 2020 and Rodríguez in 2017 and other sites that are located at the Eastern Ehiopia, the site called Harla, investigated by professor Timothy Insoll in 2017 and other sites that are located in central Shoa that are investigated by Italian Archeologoical mission at the area called Ginbi and Dertu Archeological site which was excavated by CFEE In 2023, at the area called Ada’a Berga Woreda, south-east of Addis Ababa, and to envisage proposing a heritage management. Methods used to study the sites included physical observation, measurements, interviews, photographs, Google Earth, the Global Positioning System, oral information, a drone, a notebook, and preliminary reconnaissance. In addition, the typology, physical surface size, and location of the sites are thoroughly analyzed. The finding shows that two sites were documented among twenty-five sites. Settlement sites are dominant types of the surveyed sites. Most of the sites are characterized by the circular shapes of dwelling houses. Although the pottery sherds found show different decorations are surveyed and thoroughly analyzed. Most of the sites in Addis Ababa and its environs have highly dispersed spatial distribution over a highland area. In this thesis the current situation of the sites were analyzed regarding the preservation of the sites. All of the sites are in dangerous situation and poor preseravation status.
An Investigation of Archaeo-Faunal Collection from the Early Stone Age Site of Gadeb, South Central Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-01-01) Haregwin Belete; Alemseged Beldados (PhD)
Abstract Despite the long history of archaeological research at Gadeb, no faunal studies have been conducted from this site. Thus, its context and the functional associations between the bone remains and Acheulean lithic artifacts is far from being understood. This presentation aims at addressing these critical issues through zooarchaeological methods. We examined taphonomic and taxonomic composition of the faunal assemblages from two excavation localities, i.e., Gadeb 2 and Gadeb 8. Both localities yielded diverse range of taxa including significant presence of water-dependent species such as Hippopotamidae among other ungulates. The overall taxonomic composition, however, suggests the presence of multiple micro-environments within the Gadeb area. Taphonomic results shows that despite the high abrasion of bone surfaces, the Gadeb faunal assemblage showed hominid induced marks indicated by the presence of cut and percussion marks. Furthermore, no carnivore specimen as well as carnivore-modified specimens were identified in the assemblage. Based on these, we conclude that hydraulic sorting and hominid activity as major accumulating agents. The study contributes to our understanding of ecological background, hominid behaviour and site formation of the Gadeb landscape during the Pleo-Pleistocene period.
An Investigation of Metal Collections from Pre-AksumiteTombs at Yeha: Collections from the 1960/61 Excavations
(Addis Abeba University, 2024-12-01) Gizachew Nigusu; AyeleTarekegn (Ph.D.) and Caroline Rubion (PhD)
Burial site of Da’ero Mikael is one of a very significant part in Archaeological site of Yeha along with the great Temple and great palace of Be’alGuebri. It preserved rich intact underground archaeological structures located around these monumental structures dating to the early first millennium BCE. It covers a total area of 250 m² located about 300 m to the south east of the Great Temple near to the Valley of Shillanat. The graves are excavated by Francis Anfray in the 1960s and 1970s. There are a series of seventeen rock-cut graves that most likely belongs to the rulers who lived at the palace of GratBea’lGeubri. The grave contents of these tombs included abundant pottery, different metal objects including those made out of gold, zoomorphic seals dominantly made up of bronze, other tools such as beads and an alabaster vessel that witness the artistic and techno-cultural advancement of the time. Within holistic archaeological study of Yeha material culture, this study of metal collections tried to address the gap in research concerning nature of the metal collections further in order to better understand t he technology, distinctive metal style of Yeha people specifically, and the function of the metal objects. Through nondestructive preliminary methods of analyzing such as measuring of morphological attribute, visual observation and comparative analyses, it has been tried to categorize the objects based on their primary functions. The nation of primary function appeared to be important since it is mandatory to feed our reflections in respect to the preliminary objective in which artisans get in mind while fabricating the objects. That is synthesized from the morphological appearance of the specific object. The essence of primary function should also understood from perspectives that materials would be employed for different purposes after fabrication in which that could be termed as secondary and tertiary function. Moreover, the appearance of the objects as grave good has to be mentioned important in this case in line with the idea of mortuary practice that could asserted as one subject in cultural study of Yeha. The Morpho-typological investigation was conducted on a total of 100intact metal tools in which bronze is the most dominant raw materials they made of: and remains of broken objects o btained from various excavated tombs. These objects have been classified based on their morphological type and function in to eleven groups as; bronze hoes, bronze chisels, bronze xiv sickles, bronze hooks, bronze cups and cauldrons, bronze seals, Jewelries, Iron weapons, different geometric objects, Aksumie bronze crosses and needles and rivets.Special emphasis has been given to few selected tools in order to assess their cultural meaning in the context. Rather than the simple morphological real, comparative analysis of these objects has been studied to feed our reflections of the basic questioned I designed as guide map in this study. 85 % of the objects are made out of bronze in terms of raw material distribution: where we also have Iron objects and three gold ear rings respectively. It was obstacle for me to expand my thematic scope due to methodological restrictions. I was unable to do radiographic analysis, and elemental composition analysis which would have been helpful in quests such of origin of production. From archaeological perspective however, it was evident that some of the materials are associated with another archaeological remains such as the great structures of Be`alGuibri palace, the Al Moqah temple and the ceramics: not only they just found in the same cultural and archaeological context, but also since there is a clear direct physical relation such as that between the well-dressed block stone shafts used to construct the temple and the bronze chisels most seemingly employed to dress them. Comparative observation of the objects with culturally and chronologically contemporary sites such as Hawelti, Matara and Sobea also shows the probability of trade exchange in addition to artistic homogeneity. Typological and morphological variability’s has been interpreted from different perspective of cultural realms and cultural practices that has been deciphered. Key words:bronze,Morphology, Primary function, functional analysis, Typology, metal collection, Yeha,Da`eroMika`el
Archaeological Investigation in Ahferom Woreda, Tigray: Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2014-06) Zerue, Kifle; Beldados, Alemseged(PhD)
This study has been attempted to assess and document the hitherto uninvestigated but potentially rich archaeological area of Ahferom Woreda, in central Tigray highland of northern Ethiopia. To this end, systematic reconnaissance survey, oral history, and typological analysis of ceramics as well as other archaeological remains have been done. Based on this, eight new archaeological sites have been discovered and documented. The study also provides key insights into settlement distributions and cultural traditions of the area. Most of the sites are strategically located along the traditional trade routes and in the place where abundant natural resources like high potential water flow is found for irrigation agriculture. This indicates ecological and socio-economic (trade) factors contribute for the development of ancient village settlements in the region. Decoration and color analysis of pottery along with other archaeological evidence show that period occupation of the three settlement sites has been dated from the earliest phase of first millennium BC to the Middle and/or late phase of the first Millennium AD. This suggests that they had experienced marked continuity in site occupation. Detailed study of settlement findings and ceramic artifact analysis from the five sites, on the other hand, reflects evidence of Pre-Aksumite period occupation. Bidirectional cultural interactions (locally and regionally) are also evident from typological analyses of ceramics, bronze ornaments, masonry architecture, and astonishing monolithic pillars. This study also presents the threats to the archaeological sites and archaeological objects. Moreover, it produced baseline data for future archaeological investigations and possible conservation works
An archaeological study of rock churches in Lasta, Northern Wollo
(Addis Ababa University, 2012-07) Ketema, Natnael; Begashaw, Kassaye(PhD)
Early churches constructed in Lasta from the sixth to the fifteenth century include churches built under protective roof of caves of different rock types and rock hewn churches excavated from largely volcanic rock with varying degree of detachment from bed rocks. The churches are believed to be hewn and constructed based on basilica architectural styles and adopting elements of Pre-Christian Axumite structures. The dates for the churches are highly depended on traditional sources. Based on these accounts more than seven churches in Lasta are established during the 6th century. Thus, they were built during the Axumite Kingdom. The expansion of the Axumite Kingdom to Lasta in the 6th century provided suitable ground for expansion of Christianity and resultant establishment of churches in the area. Cultural continuity between the Axum and the later periods is endured in rock churches of Lasta. Built up churches of Debre Damo, Yimrehane Kiristos and Imekina Medihanialem are churches product of different periods which show great resemblance to each other. There are also strong similarities in their plan and individual architectural elements of the churches of Bete Medihanialem and Genete Maryam. The churches remained hidden in mountainous landscape of Lasta. Through time some of the churches are deteriorated because of natural and manmade causes. Little is done to document, promote, conserve and research the churches. As a result the contribution of the tourism sector for development of the region and the country at large remained insignificant
An Archaeological Survey of Islamic Shrines in Jimma Zone, South western Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2012-06) Merga, Seyoum; Burka, Temesgen(PhD)
Islamic shrines are a sanctuary devoted to Muslim saints and used for ritual practices. As defined by Braukamper.U (2002), shrine is any man made sanctuary (sometimes associated with natural objects) devoted to a Muslim saint (wali). The custom of venerating saints and visiting their shrines is a common phenomena found in the Muslim world (Ishihara 2009). In Ethiopia, the presences of several shrines are typical proofs of the existence of a deep rooted tradition of venerating saints among the Muslim people. Islamic shrines in Ethiopia are not only a religious place, but are also important depositors of the pre-Islamic cultures of the indigenous communities (Trimingham 1965; Hussein 1994; Braukamper 2002; Kassaye 2009). Hence, Islamic shrines are important heritages used to understand cultural changes and continuities of the past and the present. However, due to the past socio-political and historical marginalization of Islam in Ethiopia, Islamic shrines have been studied very little. The previous researches conducted on Islamic shrines have been geographically and thematically limited. Consequently, shrines in the historically prominent Muslim lands (the five Gibe states) of the present day Jimma zone remained unstudied. Therefore, this paper presents archaeological survey research conducted on the Islamic shrine sites of Jimma zone. The study identified and documented two Islamic shrines namely; shrines of Sadeqiyo and Abba Arabu, located in Sokoru district and around Jimma town respectively. The shrines, being located near the former economic and administrative sites; have great significance to understand the history of Islamic relation with the past political and economic scenario of the area. In addition to this, the pre-Islamic Oromo cultural and ritual traditions are well preserved in the two shrines of Jimma zone. Albeit scholars such as Terje Ostebo (2009) claimed the ‘Islamaization of the pre-Islamic Oromo cultures’, the ritual performances conducted at the shrines of Arabu and Sadeqiyo, clearly indicates the ‘Oromization of Islamic religion’. Moreover, the shrines have actual and potential economic, scholastic, and cultural significances. Despite this fact, the shrines are presently endangered from deliberate anthropogenic actions as well as natural factors
Assement of the Organijation and Mangement of Functional Adult Literacy Program in Selected Woredas of West Harerghe Zone of Oromia
(Addis Ababa Universty, 2012-06) Kumsa, Ayele; Ingidayehu, Yalew
The study was intended to assessing The Organization And Management Of Functional Adult Literacy Program in Selected Woredas of West Harerghe Zone of Oromia. In the study, a descriptive survey method was used. Six Woredas were selected by purposive samplin method. From the six (6) Woredas, six FAL centers together with 1 faCilitators, J Woredas Adult Education boarded and technical Committee (AEB'f, ') and 7 Zone (AE8J', ') were selected by purposive sampling technique. In addition, 78(52.6)( 42 male trainees and 36 f emale) trainees were included using proportional stratified folLo wed by simple random sampling technique to supplement the data gained from the practitioners. uestionnaire, interviews, observation, as well as document revie'w were used to gather data and enricli the study. Data analysis was made by using percentile, chi square lest, t-te t and one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS of version 15. The finding ' revealed cU/pnt conditions and major factors related to organization and management of FALP offered in FAL centers. The respondents, nonetheless, listed a number of constraints like: lnadequa }' of resources (finance, human, and materials),' lack of faCilitators training, lack of facilitators recruitment fr0111 community, lack of clear and convel/ient or anizational strIfetures absence of income generation mec.:hanisms, lack of qllalified tmind faCilitators, private resistance for the establishment of FAL training program, un willingness to send family members to the FAL centers, religions problem to attend ." 'ALP, unde;' valuing fun 'lional adult literacy program, lack of non gmernment support at [til, lack of e"alu((tion materials based on quality standard out comes, lad of follow lip the (Ictivities of c.:oncerned 'ector on FALP implementation were some of th2 hil1drances re'. ealed in the stlldy. Thus, the 'e problems made organization and management of FALP ·0 be incapable of meeting their purposes and the interests of disadvantages adults al :d you'lL'. it i ', therefore, recoll1mended that the Oromia Education beuros, Zone and W.Jreda A.EBTC mell1bers and diffe rent concerned sectors have to make maximum possi:)le efforts to /I1obilize all re 'ources, stakeholders and institutions under them to rel'erse the current situati:Jn of FALP organization and management in FAL centers.
“An Assessment of the Ethnographic Museum of Wollega”
(Addis Ababa University, 2020-11) Alemayehu, Solomon; Gobezie (PhD), Mengistu
An Assessment of the Ethnographic Museum of Wollega Several researches have been conducted on the museums of Ethiopia. Research on the Wollega Museum, the subject under study is very minimal. Wollega Museum has not been touched adequately by researchers. Since museum is vital human treasure in all countries in the 21st century, the status of museums should be adequately evaluated; whether they meets national as well as internationally set standards. In the case of Ethiopia, concerns to the cultural institutions in general and to the museums in particular has given less attention in government structures as compared to other public institutions. Museums have a real power to teach the society about everything of the past and also create a link between the past and the present. Everybody can contemplate and think to put her/his history in the museum where every cultures and identities displayed and communicates. Based on these and other issues regarding the museum under study, the researcher has set an objective on the identified problems that initiated him for the study. The overall objective of this study is to assess the general status of Wollega Museum. The assessment has been made on overall of the museum‟s category of collection, documentation, conservation, exhibition and its management and also the museum standard. It also aims at exploring the challenges and opportunities of the museum under study and suggesting possible solutions to the identified gaps. Qualitative research method has been applied to address the objectives of the research. Data collecting techniques and tools are those appropriate to the qualitative research method such as, interview and observation are applied as the basic methods of data collecting tools. The collected data has been analyzed and interpreted to address the objective of the study. After all the data has been interpreted recommendations has been made to suggest possible solutions based on the findings. The key findings are: 1) The museum has meet the standard of museum establishment proclamation criteria, established according to the legislation of the Ethiopian Museums, but the Wollega Museum has not given attention on the administrative part of the museum. 2) The museum by its collection is not only an ethnography museum, it seems the general museum and its rank is on the 1st level. But, due to mal administration of the local authority, it is below the standards set for the museum in terms of management and professional personnels. As a result, recommendations for possible solutions has been forwarded for the concerning body.
An Assessment on the Effectiveness of Temporary Exhibition at the National Museum of Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-03) Tegene, Belayneh; Said, Hasen(PhD); Begashaw, Kassaye(PhD)
The exhibition is a communication medium based on objects and selected elements seeking unique interpretation techniques. Everybody, regardless of age, sex, religion, wealth and status have the opportunities to observe and judge real objects. The “National Museum of Ethiopia” is one of the relatively oldest museum establishments with seven decades of experience in organizing both temporary and permanent exhibition to date. So far few researchers have touched the nature and the content of these exhibitions. However, something we believe that the status of the temporary exhibition should be adequately evaluated whether they meet internationally settled standards. Therefore, the overall objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of the temporary exhibition in the “National Museum of Ethiopia” (here after “NME”) with regard to its exhibition standards, diversity and management as well as suggesting possible meanness of improvement on the identified gaps in the “NME”. This thesis is significant in filling the temporary exhibition gaps. Qualitative data collecting techniques, analysis and interpretation were used and supported by quantitative. To address those objective questionnaires was given to those who have directly or indirectly relations with the subject matter. To assess the effectiveness of the temporary exhibition organized by the “NME” to date is thoroughly evaluated. The scope of this paper is entirely limited to the rich experience of the temporary exhibition in the context of the “NME”. The key findings are the temporary exhibition at the “NME” is below exhibition standard in terms of exhibition elements, exhibition inputs and directives and guidelines. It is recommended that the temporary exhibition should have guideline, standards, format and professionally trained curator. Therefore, providing exhibitions policy and putting in place other related guidelines which ultimately helps towards museum exhibition benchmarks
Classification of Pottery Collections from the Site of Hawlti-Melazo at ARCCH and its Regional Implications
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-11) Girmaye, Andualem; Beldados, Alemseged(PhD)
The main purpose of this study is to classify and analyze the pottery collections from the Hawlti-Melazo site housed in the Authority for Research and Conservation of Cultural Heritage store room and compare it with other previous findings in the region. The classification of the Hawelti-Melazo collection carried out in the ARCCH laboratory resulted in the division of the collection into nine categories based on their major attributes such as type, form, shape and function. These major divisions include figurine, bowl, handle, jar, pot, body sherd, rim sherd, cup, incense burner and others. The study has revealed that the site could have been settled during both pre-Aksumite and Aksumite times. The study also indicated that the site might have been either a sanctuary or a settlement where both the ruling elite and the common people might have lived together. Based on the comparisons made with previous studies, the ceramic technology has direct and indirect parallels with Aksum, Yeha, Adulis, Nubia, the Mediterranean world and the Byzantine Vessels
Cooperation and Conflict Management Mechanisms among the People of Kalu, North Eastern Ethiopia
(AAU, 1995-06) Argaw, Demeke; K.Mohapatra, S
The study area, Kalu, is found in North central highland massif of Ethiopia and on the upper part of the rift valley depression. The Kalu are Amharic speaking people whom they share common boundary with Oromo, Argoba and Afar ethnic groups. The study area selected based on its location is on the main road from Addis Abeba northern Ethiopia Dessie, Mekele and the Afar depression in which the movement of people is too high. The Woreda shares common boundaries with the Argoba, Oromo and Afar Ethnic groups where ethnic interaction has its own effect in the traditional conflict management. Furthermore, most of the population in the Woreda is Muslim where the Islamic religion is believed to have its own contribution to the development of the indigenous institutions of conflict resolutions. In this regard, the Woreda is one of the centers of Islam in the country. I conducted the field work in the Woreda with an objective of examining traditional cooperation and customary conflict management mechanisms within the community. The people have age old tradition of cooperation and customary conflict management mechanisms. In the descriptive study of cooperation and customary conflict management of the Woreda and social, economic and political structure of the people is assessed. The traditional cooperation aspects reflect the mutual support and self help mechanisms while the customary conflict management institutions are the legal system mechanisms out of the court. Furthermore, the study focuses on the major mechanisms of traditional cooperation such as Debo, Azmach, Ertiban, Elf and other major institutions of cooperation. In addition, family, Shimglina and traditional mediators are adequately assessed as institutions of conflict management out of the court system. Finally, the customary conflict management mechanism among the people of Kalu is based on the public opinion, cultural consensus and religious beliefs. In other words, the conflict management mechanisms are basically interrelated with the social, economic and political conditions of the rural agricultural community. The customary conflict management mechanisms of the people of Kalu consider other conflict resolution mechanisms of the horn and Ethiopia studied by other Anthropologists.
Current Practices and Challenges of Addis Ababa Museum
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-03) Birhane, Solomon; Teffera, Zelalem(PhD)
The aim of this thesis is to investigate and to identify the current practices and challenges of Addis Ababa Museum. The finding of this paper will show when and how the museum was opened. The nature of current practices and its challenges are going to be addressed in this study. The number of Ethiopian and foreign visitors and amount of money generated will be clearly seen in the finding of this study. Moreover, the significance of museums to the general public in promoting culture, identity, history and economy will be discussed. Data will be collected in terms of interview, questionnaire, personal observation, photographs, archives and other means. Purposeful sampling will be used to select informants and individuals who are going to fill the questionnaire will be selected through random sampling. The finding of this study will recommend many stockholders to contribute their share in order to solve some challenges that are affecting the museum so that the country can generate good income from it
Documentation and Conservation Status of Bete Mulu Castle in Welkait, Western Tigray
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-10) Hailu, Feyissa; Hagos, Tekle(Ass.Prof.)
This thesis presents the documentation and conservation status of Bete Mulu in Western Tigray. This building is currently facing threats coming from various problems; natural and anthropogenic problems. Therefore, this research intended to investigate historical context, architectural design, significance and current status of Bete Mulu castle. While studying about historic buildings various approaches could be employed. Qualitative study, as one of the approaches in social sciences, was used. Major limitations of the existing building services systems were evaluated through analysis of building’s architectural, safety aspects and technical facilities. In addition, documenting the original building’s features by observing and measuring all about the appearance of the building was carried out. The conservation and management aspect of the study area was also carried. Finally, its historical context and values, its current condition, architectural aspect is presented after analysis and correlated with other design of building in the country. Similarly, the possible required conservation activities have been studied and possible recommendation is forwarded
Documentation of Cultural Landscapes in Welkait Woreda: Western Tigray, North Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-11) Demis, Yilikal; Beldados, Alemseged(PhD)
This study was conducted in Welkait Woreda, Western Tigray in particular the heritage sites of Bete Mulu, the Burials of Women (“Weyzazirt Mekabir”), Ona Eyesus Church, Zuwa Kidne Mihret Church, May Gaba Mikael, and Medhanialem Holy Water. The main objective of this study is to document the cultural values and history of these sites for the purpose of heritage management and possibly tourism development. To achieve the stated objectives, the researcher designed a proper methodology which includes both primary and secondary data sources. The primary data was collected through pedestrian survey, interview and field observation from these study sites. To support the primary data, secondary data was also collected and all were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. However, the research has involved more of qualitative than quantitative method. Purposive (judgmental) sampling techniques were employed in order to select the study sites and respondents within the study area. During the study, a total of 8 tumuli, 3 churches, a Castle, and Holy Water sites were identified. The burial tradition in this area was also compared with other sites in the country and the region. Accordingly, it is observed that there is a similarity and continuity of the tradition in terms of the material composition, shape and spatial coverage. Ruined churches and medieval structures were also documented for the first time. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher recommends that creating community awareness, establishing sufficient infrastructural conditions, and continuous promotion of the area should be the focus done by the concerned authority. This paper also recommends that participation and coordination of all concerned bodies and stake holders is imperative in supporting and conserving the unique landscape values of the study area
Ethnoarchaeological Study of Grind stones at Lakia’a in Adwa, Tigray Regional State, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2012-06) Teklu, Gebre; Negash, Agazi(PhD)
The Purpose of this study was to conduct an ethnoarchaeological study of grind stones at Lakia’a in order to generate ethnoarchaeologically based ideas which can help better understand grind stones in the archaeological record. Efforts have been made to address the research questions of this study using primary data and secondary sources. Simple random sampling and purposive method of sampling were employed to prepare a sample size for this study. Observation and interview methods were used to gather data from the sample and their grind stones, and grind stone quarry sites. The gathered data were analyzed and interpreted qualitatively and quantitatively. Correspondingly, the results of this study reveal that the society used grind stones of different raw materials across time. Men undertake practical raw material choice and initial stage of grind stone preparation at the quarry site while women participate in a consultation regarding raw material choice at home and prepare food for the quarry men. Women also perform exclusively the leveling work of grind stone production at home, hammerstone acquisition and the work of foodstuffs grinding. The grind stones are placed in the kitchen and are used to process wide range of foodstuffs. Grind stones are one of the best bridges that connect the people socially and economically. A grind stone and a mano can serve approximately 20-80 years and 4-7 years respectively. Grind stones are reused in the area for different uses after discard. The finding also shows that significant number of people take their useable grind stones with them while they change their settlement mainly due to cultural preference and the fear to take the risk of grind stone production. Furthermore, the finding shows that modern grinding machine could not replace traditional grind stones especially to process ceremonial foods. The results from Lakia’a are combined with the available archaeological data to strengthen the conclusions given by scholars about grinding equipments
Ethnoarchaeological Study of Wild Edible and Medicinal Plants in Arid and Semi-Arid Areas: the Case of Moyale Woreda, Borana Zone of Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-12-01) Morketa Befikadu; Alemseged Beldados (PhD)
The research focuses on the ethnoarchaeology of the wild edible and medicinal plants of Moyale Woreda, Borana Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. It includes identification and documentation of a variety of Indigenous and local botanical knowledge and material cultures linked with wild edible and medicinal plants. A comprehensive methodology was employed, including pre-field preparation, fieldwork with semi-structured interviews, and post-field analysis. Plant specimens were obtained on the spot and brought to the National Herbarium at Addis Ababa University for scientific identification. A total of 83 species of plants were collected. Out of which species of medicinal plants, including Senegalia nilotica, Senegalia tortilis, Actiniopteris radiata, Albuca abyssinica, and Caralluma apriogonium were identified in the study site. In addition, 43 wild plants that are edible, including Senegalia hockii, Grewia villosa, and Lenea rivae were documented. Reports on their use for construction, fuel, and other purposes was also recorded. Materials including pots, axes, wooden mortars and pestles, grinding stones, baskets, cups, pick-mattocks, hoes, knives, teapots, and wooden tools have been reported as being linked to wild edible and medicinal plants. The study further elucidates the challenges faced by these plants: habitat destruction, overexploitation, and climate change. Community-based conservation and further actions are recommended long-term use of these important plant resources for the benefit of local communities and towards biodiversity conservation. This ethnoarchaeological study, as a Middle-Range Theory, has helped to appreciate projections in human exploitation of food plants and medicinal plants in pre-historic times. The tools documented in this study can also give us insight into the types of material culture expected to be uncovered in archaeological excavations. Key words: "ethnoarchaeology," "wild edible plants," "medicinal plants," "Oromia," "biodiversity conservation," "indigenous knowledge." And “archaeological implication"
An Ethonarchaeological Study of Pottery Production in Tigray: The Case of Saharti Samre and Hintalo Wajirat Districts
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Asefa, Tilahun; Burka, Temesgen(PhD)
It has been described that little is done on ethnoarchaeological investigation of pottery crafts in Ethiopia. Furthermore, except some attempts made in Hintalo-wajirat, detailed ethnoarchaeological study on pottery production in Saharti-Samre and Hintalo-Wajirat districts of Tigray region has not been conducted so far. Thus, the purpose of this study was to document the over all aspects of pottery production from ethnoarchaeological perspective so as to gain better understanding of pottery in the archaeological record. To achieve this, purposive sampling technique was employed to select both samples of pottery making villages and sample of informants. The data gathered through survey, observation and interview were analyzed qualitatively. Accordingly, the results of this study revealed that clay and sand are the basic elements for pottery making across the selected villages. In the study area pottery production is generally performed through various processes beginning from raw material procurement to paste preparation, forming and shaping, making decoration, drying, polishing and firing. Though some difference and similarities are observable in some of the stated processes among potters of the selected villages, none of these differences reflect variation in ethnicity as all potters of the selected villages belong to the same ethnic group. However, the presence of similarities in some aspects indicates the prevalence of socio-cultural contact among the artisans of the different villages. Since most activities are performed in the compound of the potters, firing pits with debris of ash, fragments of pots and toolkits employed to perform various steps of pottery making could be left in the compound of potters. Furthermore, pots could be broken and discarded outside production areas at market places and households of consumers. Thus, this study suggests that production areas, market places and households of consumers could become sources of archaeological site formation in Saharti-Samre and Hintalo- Wajirat districts

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