Relevance of indigenous Knowledge to conservation of plant and animal species in Busiriba subcounty Kamwenge district

Abstract

Indigenous and local knowledge in East Africa has been previously ignored and neglected in the management of natural resources and biodiversity conservation. Yet local communities possess key knowledge and skills pertinent to the conservation of the ecosystems where they live. The study was conducted to investigate the relevance of IK to conservation of plant and animal species in Busiriba sub county, Kamwenge district, Uganda. The Specific objectives were to assess the roles of IK in plant and animal conservation, to investigate its modes of transmission and preservation and to also identify the challenges of using IK. Descriptive approach and Document review was the methodology used in this study, alongside data collection methods like field observations, semi structured interviews and secondary data review. From this study it was discovered that IK forms of conservation serve similar functions to those provided by formal and contemporary conservation strategies. Also, IK and scientific knowledge share similarities which can be a basis for their merge. In addition, characteristics of IK such as being local and orally transmitted act as major limitations to its application on top of other challenges like inadequate documentation, cultural changes, and limited teaching in schools. Local community members have knowledge relevant for the management and conservation of natural resources and the environment. Through a system of taboos embodied in traditional beliefs, local people protect individuals of species from destruction. However, the application of IK is limited locally, little efforts and recognition has been given to its application by the conservation Institutions at national level. Great efforts are required especially with the involvement of the government to promote this body of knowledge. Suggested recommendations include, need to include IK into school curricula at all levels and drafting conservation plans that aim at merging IK with scientific knowledge of wildlife conservation