Report on Collaborative Archaeology at Old Dongola, Sudan (2019-2026) : Conceptual Frameworks, Achievements & Recommendations

This report, "Collaborative Archaeology at Old Dongola (2019–2026): Conceptual Frameworks, Achievements & Recommendations," was authored by Tomomi Fushiya. It highlights a fundamental paradigm shift in archaeological practice at Old Dongola, Sudan, through different community engagement initiatives, designed and led by Fushiya, and later by Siedahmed and Idriss. It documents the transition from traditional, scholar-focused research to an inclusive, partnership-based methodology that integrates local communities into the heart of the scientific process.

Key components and themes covered in the report include:

The Collaborative Framework: The methodology moves beyond traditional "outreach" to foster equal partnerships where local residents of villages like Ghaddar and Bokkibul help define research questions and dissemination strategies. A central pillar is the redefinition of Old Dongola from a "site" to a "living landscape" or UNESCO's framework, "Cultural Landscape," integrating its medieval Makurian history with its later Funj, Islamic, and modern lived experiences. Capacity Building and Heritage Education: The project implemented intensive training for Sudanese professionals and recent graduates in value-based heritage management. It also held numerous educational workshops for schoolchildren and established the Al-Asalah Association for Heritage and Culture, a local community initiative to protect the site. Socioeconomic Development: Collaborative initiatives explicitly linked archaeology to community benefits, such as the renovation of the "House of Geili" for visitor accommodation and a handicraft programme that revitalises traditional Nubian basketry (tabaq). Strategic Outcomes: Notable achievements include the 2021 Stakeholder Meeting, the signing of the Nafir Commitment for World Heritage nomination, and the creation of an archive of oral histories. Resilience and Mitigation: The report identifies risks such as political instability and economic pressure. It highlights how the collaborative model proved its value during the 2023 national crisis, with locally trained facilitators independently maintaining heritage education and site monitoring. Future Recommendations: The report concludes with strategies for holistic heritage management, including formalising co-management mechanisms, recognising customary land tenure, and establishing "Train-the-Trainers" models to ensure long-term sustainability.

The document also provides appendices listing project personnel, funding sources, and a detailed timeline of activities from 2019 to 2026.