Assessing the Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Natural Resource Management: The Case of Mareka Woreda, Dawro Zone, South Ethiopia
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Date
2011
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Knowledge has always been an essential force in development. In today 's increasingly
knowledge-based world, many countries are embracing knowledge and innovation-related
policies to spur growth and competitiveness. The basic component of any country 's knowledge
system is its indigenous knowledge. Indigenous knowledge (IK) encompasses the skills,
experiences and insights of people, applied to maintain or improve their livelihood. It is unique
to a particular culture and society and the basis for local decision-making in agriculture, health,
natural resource management and other activities. This study attempted to identifY different
indigenous knowledge and practices of Dawro Zone in natural resource conservation. Field
observations, focus group discussions and key informants interviews were the main tools
developedfor data collection. The study was conducted in Mareka Woreda and from where six
kebeles were randomly selected. About 120 households were selected with simple random
selection procedure and the study was conducted among those households. Soil erosion, water
scarcity and loss of plant cover were the environmental problems of the study area. Local people
have been employing various indigenous practices against the problems. Different indigenous
practices in soil and water conservation, and also plant and livestock management of people in
the area were identified. There were also traditional beliefs and social values that contribute to
natural resource management besides their main purpose in the area. The study asserted that
farmers have valuable knowledge of natural resource conservation in the area; however, their
practice needs some kind of improvement for sustainability. Providing an extensive awareness
and training on sustainable utilization and conservation of natural resources to the indigenous
people and, designing and implementing culturally appropriate and integrative development
programs can preserve both natural resource and indigenous knowledge.
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Keywords
Role of Indigenous Knowledge