Indigenous Knowledge Systems Research Articles

Indigenous Ecological Knowledge and Systems of Ethnic Farmers Located at Different Altitudinal Locations along Agno River, Philippines

Ethnic farming communities located at different altitudinal locations in Agno River, Philippines face climate stressors that threaten their agricultural production. This paper determined the climate stressors experienced in the watersheds, investigated and assessed the exposures to climate stressors, and identified the ethnic affiliations of the communities, their farming practices and indigenous knowledge and systems to cope with the climate stressors. Data were gathered using pre-tested questionnaires during one-on-one interviews, focused group discussions and key informant interviews. Secondary data were likewise consulted. Majority of the communities’ ethnic affiliations are Karao, Ibaloi and Kalanguya. Farming techniques practiced include crop rotation and multicropping. The percentage of farmers in Ambuklao watershed doing it is twice as high as in both San Roque and Binga watersheds. Almost all farmers in Ambuklao do crop rotation, but apparently no one practices multicropping. Most farmers in Ambuklao plant high-value vegetables. Crop rotation is also done in San Roque and Binga where multi-cropping is also practiced. The elevational differences of the three watersheds dictate the choice of farming systems. Farm areas in Ambuklao are mostly located at higher slopes and ridges where flooding as a mean of watering is not possible. The practice of indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) in farming includes uma (kaingin), burning and applying the ash as fertilizer, natural composting, use of scarecrows and aduyon. Majority of the respondents indicated using indigenous farming systems or techniques. This did not significantly differ from the 49% who said they do not do so.

Deciphering visceral instincts: a scientific quest to unravel food choices from molecules to mind.

The study of biological mechanisms, while crucial, cannot fully explain complex phenomena like the instinct to eat. The mind-body connection, as exemplified by the concept of "voodoo death," highlights the profound influence of belief and cultural context on physiology. Indigenous knowledge systems further emphasize the interconnectedness of humans with their environment. Recent discoveries in gut-brain communication reveal the intricate neural circuits that drive our visceral desires, but a holistic approach that integrates both physiological mechanisms and the subjective experience of life, informed by diverse cultural perspectives, will be essential to truly understand what it means to be alive.

Indigenous Knowledge on the Management of Ungomwa among the Ndau of South-Eastern Zimbabwe

The article explores the indigenous Ndau people’s conceptualisation of ungomwa (infertility) and its management. More specifically, I investigated the Ndau beliefs and practices around ungomwa. I conducted a literature review, informal conversations and made observations for data collection. I delimited the study to causes of infertility among Ndau males, its detection, effects, and how it is managed within Ndau cosmology. The findings showed that, although beliefs on ungomwa were varied, it is an undesirable condition. It results in childlessness, which presents serious problems; victims suffer personal grief and frustration, social stigma, and ostracism. Using an indigenous knowledge perspective in a patriarchal Ndau community, I argue that men want to maintain their ego and masculine grandstanding in the community and usually blame women for the infertility. More important to note is that there are indigenous knowledge systems that can be employed to (mis)manage infertility if detected early at youth. If detected when a man is already in marriage, measures are put in place to ensure children are born in the family. I argue that ungomwa is a gendered, cultural, and psycho-social sexual reproductive health challenge that can be innovatively managed for human flourishing.

Sustainable Digital Transformation In Africa: Integrating Indigenous Knowledge Systems With Modern Technology

Today, the continent of Africa is at an epoch in its digital transformation journey. As the continent embraces modern technologies, it often encounters a disconnect between them and its indigenous cultural practices and environmental contexts. This paper proposes a radical shift from the Western-centric technological paradigms to a model that integrates Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) with digital transformation efforts. This study offers a unique view on sustainable and culturally congruent technological development by examining the limitations of current digital frameworks and presenting successful case studies where IKS have been harmoniously integrated with technology. We explore the potential of IKS to complement and redefine the global technological landscape. Our analysis predicts that by 2040, Africa could emerge as a trailblazer in global technology by embracing and amplifying its indigenous wisdom within its digital advancements. This paper challenges conventional wisdom and advocates for a transformative approach to digital development deeply rooted in Africa's cultural and environmental realities.

Exploring Indigenous Knowledge Systems Integrated in Natural Sciences Practical Work in Selected South African Schools

This study used the nature of indigenous knowledge (NOIK) framework to explore indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) practices that were integrated when practical work in natural sciences was facilitated. In this interpretive explorative case study, data were collected by semistructured interviews, lesson observations and a focus group interview conducted with three purposively selected natural sciences teachers and two natural sciences district officials in the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. Thematic analysis techniques were used to analyze the data that were collected. Three findings on ways to integrate IKS in science practical work are the following. First, IKS was integrated in practical work through teaching of applied science and including the learners’ lived experiences of local technologies to solve problems. Second, practical work that integrated IKS was conducted as empirical observations of natural phenomena, which included genetic variation of plants and animals, including human beings, animal behavior, using moon cycles and the movement of the sun to guide day-to-day, cultural and agricultural activities. Third, some of the IKS included myths and superstitions that distorted the public understanding of science but were nevertheless used to persuade people to uphold certain cultural practices. The study recommends comparing NOIK and the nature of science when integrating IKS in the classroom to enable learners to distinguish myths from scientific facts.

Effects of Food Insecurity on Health Conditions among Women and Children of Orang Asli Kintak in Pengkalan Hulu, Perak, Malaysia

Growing evidences have shown high overlap between food, well-being and forest conservation. Such circumstances are being faced by indigenous communities, in Peninsular Malaysia that are becoming more vulnerable due to health problems related to malnutrition. In this paper, we address effects of food insecurity and health conditions among Orang Kintak mothers and children in Pengkalan Hulu. A total of 35 mothers and 63 children were sampled using quantitative approach. Using (WHO) reference standards, main finding for BMI classification of women shows (20%) underweight, (60%) normal weight and (20%) obesity. Meanwhile, (86%) children were under weight and only (14%) are of normal weight. Understanding the health problems faced by Orang Kintak following unbalanced and nutritional diet are crucial in order for local authorities and communities to take critical action, such as to set up a basic food source production program in order to avoid over dependent on purchased food sources. Next, increase the productivity of human capital by encouraging involvement in the economic, education and health sectors. In general, policy-makers need to take into account indigenous knowledge, challenges and beliefs system when making a strategic decision so that it is beneficial and suitable for the planned strategy to be successful.

The Pocosin's Lesson: Translating respect for Indigenous knowledge systems in environmental research

Abstract Indigenous peoples living in what is now coastal North Carolina gave the name pocosin to a unique type of nonriparian wetland endemic to the region. Their Algonquian dialects are poorly documented in colonial records and have been dormant for centuries; not even contemporary Indigenous peoples in the region speak these particular languages. But for decades, environmental researchers and practitioners have asserted in publications, classrooms, and public-facing materials that pocosin literally translates to “swamp on a hill.” Despite widespread assertions, no evidence exists to support the claim. This article debunks the widely circulated translation and explains, more generally, how even well-intentioned efforts to acknowledge Indigenous peoples and their knowledge systems within Western scientific frameworks may cause harm by undermining those Indigenous peoples’ stewardship of traditional ecological knowledge or by reinforcing other aspects of colonialism. The lessons apply broadly to researchers, practitioners, and institutions that engage with Indigenous peoples and their knowledge systems.

The relativity of perspective: exploring the disconnect between Indigenous and Western paradigms of disaster risk perception

PurposeThis article demonstrates how psycho-sociological concepts have a place in disaster risk sciences. It draws attention to the relationship between risk perception and disaster management from Western and traditional viewpoints.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is conceptual and draws from published works. The systematic literature review (SLR) methodology was adopted to analyse existing literature on the subject matter.FindingsRisk perception evolved over centuries and disciplines until it found applicability in modern times. Despite the proliferation of western science-based approaches to risk perception, Indigenous knowledge systems still hold sway over communities’ understanding of risk. These perspectives are enshrined in religious and cultural convictions that become the lenses through which a society assigns cause, effect and remedy to risk events. A deeper understanding of these convictions enables disaster risk management strategies to be better accepted by those at risk and to align with their lived realities.Originality/valueRisk perception becomes the lens through which we better understand the realities and complexities of populations at risk. Indigenous knowledge systems have a strong influence on society’s perception of risk and if they are not harnessed and studied, they will stand in conflict with Western approaches. Hence, the study of the nexus between risk perception and disaster management presents an opportunity for policymakers and practitioners to design risk management solutions that have a higher chance of acceptance and sustainability.

Cognitive imperialism in artificial intelligence: counteracting bias with indigenous epistemologies

AbstractThis paper presents a novel methodology for integrating indigenous knowledge systems into AI development to counter cognitive imperialism and foster inclusivity. By critiquing the dominance of Western epistemologies and highlighting the risks of bias, the authors argue for incorporating diverse epistemologies. The proposed framework outlines a participatory approach that includes indigenous perspectives, ensuring AI benefits all. The methodology draws from AI ethics, indigenous studies, and postcolonial theory, emphasizing co-creation with indigenous communities, ethical protocols for indigenous data governance, and adaptation of AI algorithms. Case studies in natural language processing, content moderation, and healthcare demonstrate the methodology’s effectiveness and importance. By offering a concrete methodology for decolonizing AI, this paper contributes significantly to AI ethics and social justice, providing a roadmap for equitable, culturally respectful AI.

Neoliberalism in South African higher education language policy: A decolonial perspective

The global spread and hegemony of English as a medium of teaching, learning and research has come to be closely associated with neoliberalisation of higher education in the universities across the world, and has negatively impacted on epistemic issues, especially in Global South universities. No permanent solution has been found on challenges of English hegemony, particularly in African higher education. This article adds to the advancement of neoliberal discourse in higher education in South Africa by analysing neoliberal manifestations in its higher education language policy agenda. The article used desktop analysis to assess relevant literature on mainstream neoliberal ideologies and manifestations in the language policy reform post-apartheid. Drawing on relevant literature and through critical discourse analysis, it integrated evidence from the selected sources associated with mainstream neoliberal ideologies and then analysed the neoliberal manifestations in the language policy reforms pursued in South African post-apartheid context to bring out how the neoliberal actors in the higher education sector have reconfigured neoliberal principles. The decolonial perspective premised on concepts such as coloniality of being, power and knowledge was used to critique the neoliberal manifestations in South African higher education language policy directives. The paper presents the argument that universities in the country are deeply entrenched in linguistic hierarchisation which perpetuates epistemic injustices in teaching and learning. The African higher education should endeavour to underpin its language policies in indigenous knowledge systems to help harness the African content while existing in a global space where all knowledges should be regarded as equally relevant.Contribution: This article contributes to the emerging discourse of neoliberalism in higher education in the Global South and its impact on language policy formulation and implementation.

The relevance of indigenous knowledge systems in social work education and practice in Zimbabwe: A human rights perspective

Indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) are central to communities in Africa. They shape, influence, and define the behaviour of societies. Most communities in Zimbabwe have consistently recognised the human rights of individuals. Understanding how IKS can influence social work theory and practice to uphold human rights is important. Human rights are an inherent part of the social work profession. The article explores the views of social work educators in Zimbabwe on the intersection of IKS and human rights in social work education and practice. Data were qualitatively collected from ten purposefully selected social work educators using an instrumental case study design. Evidence from the participants shows four essential aspects, which are, the relevance of indigenous knowledge systems in social work education and practice in Zimbabwe, the role of indigenous knowledge systems in the application of human rights in social work in Zimbabwe, ways to utilise IKS best to uphold human rights; the challenges faced by educators in utilising indigenous knowledge systems in social work in Zimbabwe. The article concludes that IKS upholds human rights perspectives in social work theory and practice. The article recommends that IKS, informed by a human rights perspective, be integrated into social work education and practice in Zimbabwe and practised at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.

THE UNSEEN GUARDIANS OF LAND: INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES, ENVIRONMENTAL LAW AND THE PATHWAY TO SUSTAINABLE COEXISTENCE

Indigenous communities have since long been stewards of the land, possessing a deep understanding of their local ecosystems and practicing sustainable ways of resource management. However, their role as unseen guardians of the environment is often overlooked by mainstream society. This article delves into the crucial role of indigenous communities in environmental stewardship and explores how integrating indigenous knowledge with contemporary environmental law can pave the way for sustainable coexistence between humans and nature. Key legal instruments, such as the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 169 and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous people (UNDRIP), recognize Indigenous rights, yet inconsistent implementation continues to pose challenges. This paper examines the global significance of Indigenous-managed lands, which cover 22% of the Earth’s surface, and how international agreements, like the Paris Climate Accord, acknowledge their contribution to environmental preservation. National legal frameworks, such as India’s Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, and the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), 1996, highlight both opportunities and obstacles for Indigenous communities in protecting their lands. Case studies from Yellowstone National Park (USA), the Amazon Rainforest (Brazil), and the Great Bear Rainforest (Canada) are explored to demonstrate the successes and ongoing struggles in collaborative conservation initiatives. The paper argues that environmental laws must respect Indigenous sovereignty, safeguard their traditional lands, and incorporate Indigenous knowledge systems. By emphasizing the importance of legal reforms and environmental justice, this research advocates for inclusive decision-making processes that ensure Indigenous communities can actively participate in sustainable coexistence efforts. Overall, the paper concludes that empowering Indigenous communities through stronger legal protections and collaborative conservation strategies is crucial for both environmental sustainability and cultural preservation.

Revisiting African indigenous eco-spirituality and eco-solidarity: an autobiographical case of totemism among the Kipsigis

African indigenous knowledge systems and ecologies have often been marginalised in global environmental discourses due to their ‘unscientific’ and non-empirical nature. There is, however, a growing appreciation that African cosmology and ecologies are spiritual, theistic, and ordered where one mode of existence presupposes all the others and that a balance must be maintained among the different forms of life for harmonious coexistence. One way of maintaining balance among the different forms of existence was through totemic taboos. Using the Kipsigis community of Kenya, particularly the belief and practice of totemism, this article examines through oral history and storytelling, how totems created physical and spiritual bonds between the community and environment through taboos. Acknowledging that these invaluable indigenous ecological knowledge systems have eroded due to urbanisation, modernisation, and Christianisation, this article makes an autobiographical case for how young people can revisit such knowledges to inspire an eco-spirituality that, combined with scientific and technological efforts, will enhance environmental conservation. (This article is published in the thematic collection ‘African ecologies: the value and politics of indigenous knowledges’, edited by Adriaan van Klinken, Simon Manda, Damaris Parsitau and Abel Ugba.)

An analysis of the factors affecting Community-Based Tourism associated with Indigenous Knowledge of the Khmer ethnic people minority in An Giang Province, Vietnam

Abstract Community-Based Tourism has gained popularity around the world in recent years because of its benefits and impact on local communities. In this trend, ethnic minority communities, which comprise distinct and unique Indigenous Knowledge Systems, are becoming more appealing and popular tourist destinations. While the community tourism model based on Indigenous Knowledge is gaining popularity, enough study has not been conducted to analyze the elements influencing this approach. The purpose of this study is to assess factors influencing the growth of community-based tourism in An Giang province using traditional Khmer ethnic minority expertise. In this study, quantitative methods were performed on 196 tourists who had visited this model. According to the research findings, four categories of factors influence the development of this model: the Community-Based Tourism key factor (1), the Community-Based Tourism unique factors (2), the Community-Based Tourism Supporting factors (3), and the Indigenous Knowledge Systems factor (4).

Africa’s lingua franca and its role in the successful implementation of the AfCFTA: a case for Kiswahili as the African commerce and epistemological language

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is the largest free trade agreement in the world in terms of its membership and it has tremendous potential to lift millions of Africans out of poverty through boosting intra-Africa trade by ensuring that Africa has one gigantic market of over 1.3 billion people. For this to be achieved, this trade agreement must be implemented rapidly and to the letter. This article therefore argues that, among others, the use and adoption of an African indigenous language such as Kiswahili can play an important role in enabling Africans to trade with one another with ease and mutual trust. The adoption and use of this language as a potential lingua franca for commerce and teaching and learning also has the potential to harness the innovation and creativity of Africans as this would be emanating from the age-old ingenuity of our forebears. The main argument made here is that language is both the reservoir and vessel for culture and indigenous knowledge systems (IKS), and without its maximum exploitation, our societies will not industrialise and develop. Methodologically, qualitative semi-open-ended interviews and non-participant observation were conducted in Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa to gauge experts’ views on the utility of Kiswahili as a potential Pan-African language. Pan-Africanism and Afrocentricity are key theories deployed in giving shape to this study.

A Comprehensive Review of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in India and its Importance and Role in Biodiversity Conservation

A Comprehensive Review of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in India and its Importance and Role in Biodiversity Conservation

Weaving Indigenous and Western knowledge systems to discern drivers of mooz (moose) population decline

Weaving Indigenous and Western knowledge systems to discern drivers of <i>mooz</i> (moose) population decline

The medicinal plant Buddleja asiatica and its relation to the welfare of local people in the Pan‐Himalayan region: Past, present, and future perspectives

Societal Impact StatementGlobalization and rapid shifts in culture and economy threaten indigenous and local knowledge (ILK) systems, and large intergenerational gaps in this knowledge already exist. Buddleja asiatica is a deciduous shrub or small tree with traditional medicinal applications but is currently largely overlooked as a medicinal resource. This study investigates the traditional uses of B. asiatica in indigenous communities in the Pan‐Himalayan region through ethnobotanical field surveys, with a view to preserving cultural heritage and strengthening economic resilience in these communities, as well as developing B. asiatica as a medicinal resource. Prioritizing the well‐being of mountain communities, this study aims to bridge community development with nature.SummaryBuddleja asiatica Lour. (Scrophulariaceae) is widely distributed across the Pan‐Himalayan region. It has traditional medicinal applications and cultural value, as well as ecological significance. We conducted an ethnobotanical study combining field surveys from Nepal and Xizang, China with a literature review using Web of Science (WoS) to review the ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological aspects of this species. Our study highlights the cultural significance of B. asiatica within indigenous communities and, in particular, the use of the leaves to make a starter culture for the preparation of wine. However, an evident intergenerational gap in knowledge transfer exists. The phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of various chemical classes (carbohydrates, terpenoids, flavonoids, saponins, esters, steroids, glycosides, and fatty acids), of which 15 phytoconstituents were first reported from various parts of B. asiatica. The potential medicinal properties of these chemicals include anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, cytotoxic, antihepatotoxic, antimicrobial, and cholinesterase activities. We combine these lines of evidence to show the prospects for the livelihoods of local people across this region and propose future research directions.

The Transformative Nature of Indigenous Knowledge Systems to Address Gender Inequality

Women have played a significant role in the history of Africa and indigenous normative systems and continue to do so. However, today their roles are in some quarters undermined due to patriarchy. South Africa has been changing and transforming to be more inclusive of the important contributions of women in traditional leadership roles. Traditional leadership is the oldest form of governance in Africa; however, men have historically occupied the throne. In pre-colonial societies, traditional leadership was determined by gender-defined roles between men and women; however, it became a problem after colonialism, when the gender-defined roles became distorted and patriarchy dominated. This led to the exclusion of women from leadership positions and the situation persisted into the modern-day. This contribution argues that women can lead, as history has proven that they are great leaders, but decisions about their leadership and choices must be determined based on their own choices and the protection of their voices. Decisions as seen from judicial pronouncements in South Africa are made to protect the right to equality and dignity of women, but if not done properly, it has the effect of undermining the very rights that state institutions aim to protect. This article recommends consideration of women’s voices across South Africa, especially in rural areas. Society must hear how they feel about their role as traditional leaders and how succession to these positions will bring challenges, for example, what will happen if a woman leader marries a commoner.

Transmission of indigenous knowledge systems under changing landscapes within the vhavenda community, South Africa

Indigenous Knowledge (IK) and techniques benefit not only humankind but also benefit the environment. Nevertheless, the transmissions of indigenous knowledge are threatened and replaced by Western knowledge and ideologies. The focus of the study was to demonstrate the various Indigenous knowledge transmission methods, the driving forces behind their disappearance, and how they added value to the resilience of such knowledge forms in sustaining Indigenous and local communities throughout the centuries. To achieve this, the study used questionnaires consisting of open-ended and closed-ended questions (n = 136). Participants were selected and identified through purposeful sampling from five remote indigenous villages in South Africa. The data were collected only from principal elderly participants above 50 due to their profound knowledge and experiences with their local environment. The most prevalent indigenous knowledge within the Vhavenda people is folklore, which is orally transmitted from one generation to the next through traditional songs, stories, dances, myths, customs, and rituals. Drivers such as invasion of technology, reluctance on the part of custodians to pass on the knowledge, knowledge being forgotten, and knowledge being less effective were ranked to be highest in the hindrance of IK transmission in the study area. Solutions such as revitalising knowledge systems through proper documentation, such as building online libraries, integrating Western and indigenous knowledge, and introducing indigenous knowledge into mainstream education systems and media could assist in preserving such knowledge.