Activities >> Sites

Ghana: ASANTE Traditional Buildings

Background

Based on the positive results of the work carried out in the past with funds coming from the World Heritage Centre and the Embassy of France in Ghana, the French Embassy continues to sponsor the collaboration between the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board and CRATerre-EAG in order to develop and strengthen the new conservation strategy adopted for the Asante Traditional Buildings. At this point in the project the main emphasis is given to ensuring the sustainability of the initiative. In 2002 programme continued to benefit from the existence of another initiative being carried out at Navrongo in Northern Ghana. The success of this project has also been instrumental in the launching of a new Projet Situé in 2003 at Larabanga.

Objectives

• reinforce the promotional campaign for Besease as a tourist attraction;
• continue support to the GMMB for the better efficiency in the management of the site;
• continue to develop restoration techniques adapted to the bas-reliefs and implement some works at the most exposed places;
• fine-tune training of GMMB technicians for the restoration of the bas-reliefs.
  

Structure

Only one mission was carried out by CRATerre-EAG staff during 2002. Sébastien Moriset was in Kumasi from 4 – 21 November. On several occasions during the year, staff of the GMMB implemented preventative conservation works and maintenance of structures at several sites. Staff of GMMB in charge of Asante Traditional Buildings have also participated in the conservation activities at being carried out at Navrongo.

Results

• The management committee continues to function in a decision making capacity at the site.
• The ATB Fund is fully functioning. There is still a need, however, to better organize the sale of booklets and postcards so that it can benefit the conservation of the site.
• Condition surveys of the bas-reliefs continue to be carried out at regular intervals.
• The conservation guide for the restoration of the bas-reliefs has been finalized.
• Conservation works were carried out as necessary at several sites.
• Bartholomew Komoah, responsible for the conservation of the bas-reliefs continues to improve and fine-tune his skills in traditional building decoration technique.