Intangible Heritage in the Digital Age: Preserving Practices and Religious Rituals through Technology in Africa

Abstract (English)

This abstract discusses how digital technologies are used in Nigeria to safeguard intangible cultural heritage, namely religious rituals and cultural practices. It discusses ways technology can be utilized to preserve language, customs, and traditions against the backdrop of globalization and digitalization. The research explores a digital manifestation of cultural heritage via digital storytelling, virtual reality, and digital archives, providing higher engagement levels with Nigerian culture. The study explains how mobile apps, online platforms, and social media transform religious experiences, particularly for Muslim and Christian communities. The study explains how digital tools affect prayer, charity work, Islamic knowledge, and communal life during Ramadan and also examines digital worship and Christian ministry. As qualitative research uses the ethnographic method, the abstract discusses numerous challenges, such as spreading misinformation, losing personal interaction, and balancing technological effectiveness with traditional values. The abstract also discusses attempts at creating digital repositories of intangible heritage and the importance of digital preservation practices for indigenous knowledge. It emphasizes the need for policy development and partnerships to ensure the accessibility and sustainability of digital cultural resources. By analyzing these trends, this study enlightens us on how Nigeria can leverage technology to preserve its cultural identity, facilitate intergenerational and knowledge transmission, and promote cultural evolution in the digital age.