Application of indigenous knowledge systems in wildlife management: a case study of the Samburu pastoral community in Kenya
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Date
2016-02
Authors
Ocholla, G. O.
Mireri, C.
Muoria, P. K.
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Abstract
The value of knowledge-practice-belief complex of the indigenous people relating to conservation of wildlife is
seldom recognized in research. In the African context, indigenous knowledge has long been overshadowed and
thus ignored by western conservation knowledge. Consequently, much of this knowledge is fast disappearing in
application to wildlife diversity conservation. This study was conducted to elucidate how the Samburu traditional
knowledge is relevant in the conservation and management of wildlife species. The survey was conducted among
three communities in the Wamba Division of Samburu East District. For the study, stratified random sampling
was used to draw 72 households from three conservation areas. Key Informant Interviews and Focused Group
Discussions were also conducted to consolidate information from interviews. The study identified several
indigenous benefits that the community derives from different wildlife species. The benefits include nutritional
values, ceremonial wears and traditional uses of wildlife body part, medicinal and aesthetic values. The study
concluded that there exist several facets of indigenous knowledge among Samburu community that supports their
harmonious living with wildlife. This knowledge can be an important tool in biodiversity conservation in the area.
Description
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Keywords
Indigenous knowledge, Wildlife management, Samburu, Human-wildlife conflict, Community based nature conservation
Citation
International Journal of Applied Science and Technology Vol. 6, No. 1; February 2016