Leonard Mwita ChachaKaroli, Bonareri Nelly2024-02-062024-02-062023-11https://ir-library.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/27560Tasnifu hii Imewasilishwa ili Kutosheleza Baadhi ya Mahitaji ya Shahada ya Uzamili Katika Chuo Kikuu cha Kenyatta,Novemba,2023.This study examined the ecology of herbal lexicon in Swahili language. Ecology is a branch that explores debates that are relevant or inappropriate for the environment. Language and culture are inseparable. Language patterns influence the way humans think about their environment and that leads to actions that are the heart of the ecological challenges they face. In this project, we analysed how herbal lexicons are considered as signs of environmental conservation techniques in the ecosystem. The project aimed to achieve these goals: to identify how the herbal lexicons could be classified in the Swahili language, to examine how the herbal lexicons reflected environmental conservation and to demonstrate the relationship between the herbal lexicons and the Swahili culture. This study was guided by the ecosemiotic theory that helped us understand that what is identified as an impact on ecology often has semiotic factors and differences in interpreting signs or vocabulary. Data was collected by the interview technique from the Swahili speakers found in Mvita. We noted that there are herbal lexicons like mpambamwitu that the Swahili used to show the beauty of their forests by bringing a natural image and a unique look. In addition, we found that the Swahili people interacted with the herbal trees in their day-to-day life such as mwarubaini. This culture was seen as a system of symbols that the Swahili used to communicate and bring meaning to their environment. How we choose our vocabulary while communicating about the environment can change the way the community views their environment. This study suggests that we should recognize the value of the natural environment and incorporate it into our policies and systems. By recognizing that our environment is our biggest ally then we will use it in a sustainable way for future generations. 1enIsimu IkolojiaLeksimuMiti ShambaLugha ya KiswahiliThesis