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Indigenous knowledge systems in nembudziya
(African Journal of Intellectual Property, 2019-06-02) Musasa Tapiwa.
Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) have been considered backward and primitive in most sectors particularly those to do with modern development. The knowledge remains disputed and contested. While some scholars acknowledge its existence and usefulness, some have contested it as minor, raw, not easy to generalise, private and not applicable for large scale development interventions. As a result, this body of knowledge is threatened by extinction since only a few local people in rural areas remain its custodians. Its inclusion in the school curriculum has been on a low level in Zimbabwe and Africa. However, some institutions of higher learning have recognised its significance and efforts and milestones are being made in research. This article is asserting and confirming the validity of African IKS as an essential body of knowledge which still needs promotion, development and recognition as traditional knowledge which has helped in the conservation of forests, prevented soil degradation and promoted development and resilience of ecosystems. Some of the possible threats and challenges which may lead to the demise of this critical body of knowledge have also been explored.