Effect of Traditional Knowledge System in Sustainable Development and Management of Natural Resources in Meru Community

Abstract

This paper aimed at studying the effect of traditional knowledge system in sustainable development and management of natural resources in Meru community. The study was guided by the following questions: What is the role of indigenous system in the protection and conservation of natural resources in Meru community? What is the role of integrated environmental management frame work in the sustainable development and management of natural resources in Meru community? What is the relationship between participatory decision making, policy maker’s implementation and natural resources users in Meru community? The research was conducted in Meru and Tharaka Nithi Counties and through purposeful sampling had two case studies from each county in Meru community. Data was collected using guided interviews and semi structured questions. The data was collected through a focus group discussion, documents and audio-visual materials. The study reviewed the literature to understand the effect of traditional knowledge system in sustainable development and management of natural resources in Meru community. Theoretical insights and empirical findings from the studies suggest that despite the generalized worldwide trend of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) erosion, substantial pockets of TEK persist in both developing and developed countries. The findings also reinforce previous hypotheses pointing at the importance of TEK systems as reservoirs of experiential knowledge that can provide important insights for the design of adaptation and mitigation strategies to cope with global environmental change in the management of natural resources. Recognition of endogenous management of Indigenous knowledge becomes an enhancing solution to the seemingly mega challenges of community development. Indigenous knowledge is a more secure foundation for sustainable solutions to challenges in developmental issues in communities and in Africa. Advanced technology in Indigenous knowledge (IK) usage and preservation empowers users to improve on pre-existing solutions to a problem, achieve a goal, and most of all improve on the standards of living. Keywords: Traditional knowledge System, development and management, Natural Resources, Meru community