Indigenous knowledge management practices in subsistence farming: A comprehensive evaluation

Abstract

The research evaluated the levels to which subsistence yam farmers operationalized indigenous knowledge management during the COVID-19 period. A descriptive survey approach was employed. The research comprised 120 randomly selected peasant yam farmers. Means, t-test, standard deviation, and ANOVA analysis were used to evaluate the data. The level of indigenous knowledge management process in terms of conversion, distribution, acquisition, application, and protection was moderate amongst the peasant yam farmers. Again, the level of indigenous knowledge management infrastructure in terms of culture, structure and technology was moderate amongst the peasant yam farmers. The study did not find a significant difference in the operationalization of indigenous knowledge management between male and female participants. Nevertheless, the study revealed a significant difference in the levels of operationalization of indigenous knowledge management among the different extension operational zones. Practically, the study emphasizes the significance of using, documenting, and reusing indigenous knowledge management strategies, thus, experienced (tacit), discovered (implicit), and known (explicit) knowledge which enriches the knowledge management literature. These strategies are highly beneficial in fulfilling the information requirements of farmers, particularly in times of a pandemic like COVID-19. It is recommended that training and capacity-building programs be provided to peasant yam farmers on effective knowledge management techniques. Older farmers need to be encouraged to mentor and pass down their indigenous knowledge to younger generations to ensure the continuity of valuable traditional practices.