IN-PERSON Barcelona. Section A

Abstract

The CoaAst project embodies an innovative approach to understanding the dynamic interplay between cultural practices and environmental changes in coastal communities. Based in Bamburi Beach, near Mombasa, Kenya, this initiative harnesses the power of oral history and community engagement to address pressing global and local issues. At the heart of CoaAst lies the collaboration between children from two local schools and their teachers. Equipped with audio recorders, these young participants embark on a quest to capture aural memories, weaving a rich tapestry of local heritage and wisdom. This process not only empowers the community but also provides invaluable insights into the perceptions and impacts of landscape, cultural, environmental, and economic transformations in their lives. The project’s focus on youth involvement is particularly significant. By engaging children in the documentation of their community’s history and experiences, CoaAst fosters intergenerational dialogue and learning. This approach not only enriches the archival content with diverse perspectives but also strengthens social cohesion. The children’s exploration takes them from their villages to the shores, delving into the very essence of their homeplaces. CoaAst’s methodology serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it creates an accessible public archive of aural memories, a repository of local knowledge and experiences. Secondly, it offers policymakers a unique lens to understand community perspectives on change and resilience. This insight is crucial for informed decision-making, particularly in areas like economic growth and conservation. By documenting and analyzing the intersection of marine cultural heritage (MCH) with contemporary challenges, CoaAst stands as a testament to the power of community-led initiatives in shaping sustainable futures. It highlights the importance of local knowledge in global discourses on urban development, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship.