The role of indigenous knowledge in forest conservation: Gombakomba Communal Area, Mutare District, Zimbabwe.

Abstract

The role of indigenous knowledge in forest conservation was investigated in Gombakomba communal area in Mutare District in Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe. In carrying out this study, the researcher used in-depth interviews and non-participant observation to gather information. Purposive sampling was used to select elders who were believed to possess vast knowledge on indigenous practices used to conserve forest resources in Gombakomba communal area. The study established that sacred sites, sacred trees, taboos, totems, together with unhu(humanness) play a significant role in sustainable conservation of forest resources in the study area. Sacred forests and sacred trees have remained untouched and ensure sustainable conservation of forest resources. It was observed that there was over exploitation of forest resources in areas not considered sacred and over exploitation of trees that are not regarded as sacred. Unhu, taboos, totems and resting days (chisi and magarai) have also helped in reducing over exploitation of forest resources. The study also revealed the fundamental role played by traditional leaders in enforcing traditional rules that protect forest resources. It emerged from the study that indigenous knowledge is acquired from the parents, grandparents and from the ancestors who communicate their will through the spirit mediums. Hence, the study concludes that indigenous knowledge can contribute to effective conservation of forest resources. Moreover, indigenous practices can also be used as a tool to reduce environmental degradation and climate change. The study therefore, recommends environmentalists to consider indigenous knowledge in their endeavour to achieve sustainable management of the environment.