Feasibility of integrating traditional and scientific ecological knowledge systems for sustainable biodiversity co-management in Zimbabwe: a policy perspective

Abstract

The renewable natural resources found on public lands outside of protected areas often face the predicament of competing and conflicting knowledge systems and management approaches. Yet, these resources are so critical for the sustainable livelihoods of the vulnerable rural populations and their management becomes a priority. The quest for a functional management approach has led to a multitude of options being drafted. This study assessed the feasibility of integrating the often competing traditional and scientific ecological knowledge systems for sustainable biodiversity co-management in Zimbabwe. The goals of the study were to characterise the perceptions of local rural communities in Masvingo Province, regarding access, use and management of natural biotic resources; to compare the duo knowledge systems; analyse opportunities and barriers to their integration and suggest an institutional and legislative framework for adaptive biotic resource co-management and environmental sustainability. The study was based on a case study of communal lands in Masvingo province of Zimbabwe. Data were gathered from traditional leaders, villagers, state resource managers and NGOs officials through interviews, questionnaire surveys, focus group discussions and direct field observations. The study documented the principle biodiversity management strategies used by local people and state natural resource managers. Although the methods differed, they shared common attributes in that they both had governing authorities and strict laws; and both seek to foster harmony between people and the environment. Opportunities for bridging the divide between traditional and Western scientific ecological knowledge systems for the sustainable co-management of biodiversity were identified. The study concluded by proposing an institutional and policy framework that seeks to foster the sharing and co-applications of the duo knowledge systems and management approaches in a pragmatic manner. We therefore envisage an environmental management approach that reminisce cultural societies whilst being progressive.