By Victoria Oballa

Indigenous Knowledge is Key to a Sustainable Future

Indigenous knowledge provides some of the most effective solutions to today’s pressing global challenges, such as health, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation. For generations, Indigenous communities have developed knowledge systems that harmonise human activity with nature, encouraging the responsible use of resources and the protection of ecosystems. Nevertheless, these knowledge systems continue to be marginalised in mainstream research and policy-making, preventing their full potential from being realised. Historically, research relationships have been influenced by power imbalances, with researchers from dominant cultures controlling the process and sidelining Indigenous voices. Addressing these gaps requires a deeper understanding of how knowledge regarding Indigenous peoples’ issues and rights is produced, shared, and utilised.

In response, the Centre for Human Rights and Policy Studies (CHRIPS), with the support of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), is implementing a one-year project to understand knowledge production processes related to Indigenous Peoples’ issues and rights in Eastern and Southern Africa. This initiative seeks to examine Indigenous peoples’ knowledge processes, including the protection and promotion of their rights.

According to the World Bank, Indigenous Peoples are distinct social and cultural groups that share collective ancestral ties to the lands and natural resources they inhabit, occupy, or from which they have been displaced. Their identities, cultures, livelihoods, and physical and spiritual well-being are intricately connected to these lands and resources. Despite their invaluable contributions to environmental stewardship and cultural heritage, Indigenous Peoples have often faced a lack of recognition and exclusion from decision-making processes that impact their lives and livelihoods. This collaborative project between IDRC and CHRIPS aims to address the deep-rooted challenges of epistemic injustice while fostering equitable research partnerships that ultimately empower Indigenous communities and advance sustainable development.

During a workshop held in Nairobi on 6 February 2025, Dr. Mutahi, the Director at CHRIPS, delivered opening remarks highlighting gaps in Indigenous knowledge research and outlining the project’s objectives. He emphasized that the project would also contribute to existing scholarly work on Indigenous knowledge and communities. “There are gaps in strengthening knowledge production systems by and for Indigenous peoples in eastern and southern Africa, as well as in recognising their contributions to research. To this end, this project will enhance understanding of knowledge production processes concerning issues affecting these groups, including the protection and promotion of their rights,” Dr. Mutahi noted. 

Indigenous knowledge is not just cultural heritage; it is a fundamental pillar of sustainable development. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognise the need to integrate Indigenous perspectives in addressing holistic healing methods, climate change, food security, and biodiversity conservation. Insights and knowledge from these communities provide practical solutions for sustainability problems. Yet, without meaningful inclusion in decision-making processes, the full potential of this knowledge remains untapped.

The workshop brought together researchers, and key stakeholders to explore existing gaps, challenges and opportunities. The role of youth in preserving and transmitting Indigenous knowledge was discussed, with participants stressing the need to engage younger generation in documenting and adapting ancestral wisdom into modernity. “Our elders hold a wealth of knowledge, but it is our responsibility to encourage the young people to ensure this knowledge is not lost. Leveraging technological advancement in capturing and transferring this knowledge through social media, digital archives, and community education to preserve and share this knowledge within communities,” said Kelvin Muli of the African Network for Climate Action.

Women were also recognised as primary custodians of Indigenous traditions and as vital contributors to knowledge. The workshop further examined the role of technology in enhancing Indigenous knowledge systems. Digital storytelling, mapping of sacred ecological sites, and community-led research were identified as essential tools for preserving and amplifying Indigenous wisdom. However, concerns regarding knowledge appropriation and data sovereignty were raised, emphasising the necessity for ethical and policy frameworks that ensure communities retain control over their intellectual heritage.

As the curtains were drawn on the workshop, participants reaffirmed their commitment to bridging Indigenous knowledge with modern sustainability efforts. They called for inclusive research partnerships with communities, stronger policy advocacy, and the creation of spaces for knowledge holders to share their insights. Emphasising the need to empower Indigenous voices in decision-making, they highlighted the importance of recognising and integrating traditional wisdom into sustainable development strategies.