Utilization of Indigenous Knowledge for Competitiveness among Curio Makers of Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Knowledge-based creativity and competitiveness in the cultural industry is determined by the form of work organization and the knowledge enabling conditions prevailing in the operating environment of an organization. Against this background, a case study was conducted to assess the extent to which knowledge enabling conditions prevailing in the environment of curio makers that operated from Matobo National Park, supported competitiveness. Knowledge creation dimensions on intention, individual and group autonomy, fluctuation/creative chaos, information redundancy and requisite variety outlined in the Knowledge Creation Theory provided a perspective for understanding the study phenomena. Individual autonomy, fluctuation/creative chaos, requisite variety and intentional components on trust, collaboration, learning, and incentives and rewards were present. Information redundancy was absent. The curios showed creativity but lacked in uniqueness. The recommendations included development of structures that delineate and provide guidance on a knowledge vision.