Cultural heritage conservation and the colonial past in Tanzania: collaborative approaches towards German colonial administrative buildings and military stations (Bomas)

Monumental buildings erected by colonial powers as part of their occupation of conquered territories are powerful reminders of how local populations and territories were brought under control. After attaining independence, some countries, including Tanzania, continued to use some of these monumental colonial buildings as government offices; others have fallen into disrepair. With the requisite circumspection and based on extensive consultation and cooperation with local communities, turning such sites into heritage properties may offer critical opportunities. This approach can teach the history of colonialism and the global entanglement that remains its legacy, with potential for educational tourism development. This article uses a case study from Tanzania to assess the possibility of conserving and using former German colonial administrative buildings, taking into account the current situation. Based on collaborative work with local populations and considering heritage management and conservation approaches, the article aims to report on the types of markers the so-called Bomas may represent in Tanzania and elsewhere.