Trends for application of indigenous Knowledge in Natural Resource Management among Nandi People, Kenya

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge has been widely reported by researchers and natural resource managers as a valuable contributor to natural resource management and biodiversity conservation. The influences of modernity throughout Africa and the developing world have seriously contributed to the negation of traditional indigenous knowledge in ongoing efforts to ensure sustainable management of natural resources. This study sought to investigate the changing trends in use and application of IK in NRM and establish environmental implications of changes in use and application of indigenous natural resource management. The study adopted a case study design. The target population were officers in charge of environmental management in the county, traditional specialists and household heads. A total of 385 household heads, thirteen traditional specialist and ten Nandi county natural resource management policy officers were selected through systematic, snowball and purposive sampling methods respectively. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires while qualitative data was collected through key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Quantitative data was subjected to both descriptive and inferential analysis. Descriptive data were analysed in form of frequencies and percentages. For inferential statistics chi square was computed to test relationships between study variables while qualitative data was analysed thematically. The study established Significant changes in the usend application of IK in NRM- (Chi-square=129, df=1 P<0.05 for land use), (Chi- square= 230.7 df=2, P<0.05 for water resources), (Chi-square=151.3, df=1 P<0.05 for forest cover) and (Chi-square=154.4, df=1 P<0.05 for wildlife). Modern approaches in NRM have taken precedence over traditional ecological knowledge resulting to significant negative environmental implications that ranged from: shrinking of water bodies, reduced vegetation cover and extinction of endemic species in Nandi forest. The study found out that IK and modern NRM are complimentary rather than incommensurable. These findings suggest the need to encourage community-based NRM at grass root levels, and incorporation of rural participatory NRM in Nandi county environmental management plans. This will enhance the integration of indigenous knowledge in modern natural resource management strategies