Evaluation of Digital Preservation Initiatives in Cultural Institutions: The Case of Tooro Kingdom

Abstract

Digital preservation is necessary to ensure the longevity of archives in cultural institutions. This study examined the digital preservation initiatives at Tooro Kingdom and their impact on accessing archives. The primary aim was to assess the effectiveness of these initiatives in preserving the Kingdom's cultural heritage and to identify the challenges faced in this process. The research focused on four key areas: identifying the types of archives that have been digitized, analysing the current digital preservation efforts, exploring the challenges affecting these initiatives, and developing a framework to enhance digital preservation practices. The study was qualitative involving 20 participants from Tooro Kingdom and Mountains of the Moon University. The findings revealed that Tooro Kingdom has made significant progress in digitizing various archives, including historical documents, audio recordings, economic records, government agreements, and public health information. This digitization is crucial for safeguarding the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage and ensuring that valuable historical narratives remain accessible for future generations. However, the study also highlighted several critical challenges, including the absence of specific policies guiding the selection and management of digital archives, technological limitations, funding constraints, and organizational issues. These barriers hinder the effective management and accessibility of digital archives, emphasizing the need for improved infrastructure and dedicated resources. To address these challenges, the study proposes a comprehensive framework that integrates established best practices from recognized models in digital preservation, such as the OAIS reference model and the NDSA Levels of Digital Preservation. This framework emphasizes the importance of collaboration between Tooro Kingdom and Mountains of the Moon University, aiming to strengthen resource sharing and expertise in archive management. Additionally, the framework advocates for the establishment of clear policies and guidelines to prioritize preservation efforts, enhance metadata management, and ensure long-term accessibility of digital materials. By implementing this framework, Tooro Kingdom can significantly improve its digital preservation capabilities, ensuring that its cultural heritage is not only preserved but also celebrated and shared with future generations. The study ultimately underscores the importance of strategic planning and collaboration in the realm of digital preservation, contributing valuable insights to the broader field of cultural heritage management.