Publications
The Living Tradition of Sailing Crafts: Their Important Contribution to the Quality of Life in Madagascar
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Manage No DI00001256 Country Republic of Korea Author Tom Polacheck (Researcher, Pacific Traditions Society) Published Year 2018 Language English Copyright 
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| Description | The island of Madagascar is among the last, if not the last, large coastal region where openocean, sailing vessels remain the predominant crafts being used for both fishing and transport of goods and people. A rich diversity of sailing vessels and associated cultural heritage exists that are fundamental to the daily life of coastal communities. Awareness and knowledge of this heritage is largely unknown outside of the local communities and even here, it is not clear that it is highly appreciated. Development pressure to adopt “modern” boats and methods of propulsion are intense, but this would result in large dependencies and negative consequence for the sustainability and wellbeing of these communities. There is an urgent need for concerted efforts and programs to foster and safeguard this sailing heritage that will motivate preference for its continued utilization. This work needs to include a large element of local participation and involvement. Its focus needs to be on documenting the role and value of these vessels in terms of their economic and social importance as well as recording the skills involved in building, sailing, navigating and maintaining them. Such documentation should aim to foster a pride and appreciation in their vessels, skills and knowledge. This information needs to be distributed and presented widely within the coastal communities as well as those involved with management and development in Madagascar and beyond. Without such efforts, this highly valuable cultural heritage will likely be lost with devastating local consequences. | ||
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