CHALLENGES OF ROCK-HEWN CHURCH CONSERVATION PROJECTS: THE CASE OF CHURCHES IN LALIBELA, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The Lalibela rock-hewn churches are still deteriorating even though efforts to address the problems exist. This research explores the causes of the problems the churches encountered especially because of the conservation efforts. In view of this, a sample size of 100 respondents was chosen for the study. Questionnaire survey approach was adopted for the study. More so, data generated from the survey were further analyzed, using Relative Importance Index. The findings of the survey indicated that the problems in communication management are critical variables which influence the conservation project. It is recommended to involving the community and practice proper communication between each stakeholder in the project. And the implementation of an integrated management to make projects successful in the future is also recommended. Practicing the project management bodies of knowledge effectively and efficiently could help to solve the problems to happen and minimize the risks.