Mumba rock shelter and the surrounding landscape are places where evidence for the evolution of modern humans (Homo sapiens sapiens) and their cultural practices have been uncovered. Deep and stratified archaeological deposits recorded at Mumba have shown unique distinctive technological and behavioural traits, with possible connections between MSA, LSA, and Neolithic cultures. The shelter is currently used for cultural tourism, ritual, mystical healing, and other ceremonial practices. Despite its importance, Mumba rock shelter lacks a reliable management plan to protect it against threats of deterioration and misuse. This study assessed the potential for community involvement in conservation management at Mumba rock shelter, and highlights the importance of engaging community members in future management plans and strategies. This approach is necessary to create a sustainable cultural heritage management and conservation plan for Mumba and other cultural heritage sites across the Lake Eyasi Basin. Presented data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with members of local communities and other heritage stakeholders in the Lake Eyasi Basin. The results indicate a need for collective management approaches in which national heritage agencies, researchers and local communities team up to improve the national recognition and understanding of the local and global importance of these sites, as well as the benefits accruing from and the threats facing cultural heritage resources in the region. The research also shows that heritage agencies, in collaboration with local communities, should promote cultural tourism initiatives and other strategies to eradicate poverty and make the heritage relevant to the regular livelihoods among local communities.