Politics of heritage management in the war torn Horn of Africa

Cultural heritage preservation is not a priority when dealing with wars, droughts and piracy in the Horn of Africa. However, the region hosts some of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world. This heritage is very little known and in the current situation faces a threat in the armed conflict. This paper deals with attempt to start cultural resource management projects in Somaliland, independent yet unrecognised breakaway region of Somalia. Ritual landscapes as well as rock art in the regions form some of the most popular sites and outreach and community involvement has been introduced in the last few years. The paper suggests ways of promoting cultural diversity and raising awareness.