Preserving Digital Cultural Heritage in Resource-Limited Environments: A Theoretical Framework from an African Perspective

Digital cultural heritage in resource-limited environments poses unique challenges for preservation, particularly in South Africa where infrastructure and financial resources are often scarce. This study employs a systematic review approach to analyse existing literature on digital cultural heritage preservation in resource-limited settings. It also incorporates theoretical frameworks from the fields of information science, library science, and digital humanities. This theoretical framework outlines essential steps for developing sustainable digital preservation strategies tailored to resource-limited settings, emphasising the importance of collaboration between stakeholders and the incorporation of local knowledge into preservation efforts. Stakeholders are recommended to prioritise community engagement, utilise open-source technologies, and establish partnerships with educational institutions and technology hubs. These recommendations aim to enhance the effectiveness of digital cultural heritage preservation in resource-limited environments.