Management of indigenous knowledge for maternity and childcare in the communities of Matatiele, Eastern Cape

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge and practices during the period of maternity and childcare form an important and spiritual part of African people. It is therefore imperative that this knowledge is meticulously managed by applying systematic methods of acquiring, preserving and ensuring sustainable access by all who require it. The aim of this study was to investigate the management of indigenous knowledge for maternity and childcare in the communities of Matatiele in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Its main objectives were to identify the different types of indigenous knowledge used for maternity and childcare in the communities of Matatiele, establish methods used to acquire, preserve and disseminate indigenous knowledge, as well as to establish methods that can be used to enhance the management of indigenous knowledge. The study adopted the hermeneutical phenomenology research design and a snowball sampling technique to determine the population for this study, which consisted of traditional midwives and women who have experience in using indigenous knowledge for maternity and childcare. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed thematically according to the study objectives. The study found that indigenous knowledge is widely used for maternity and childcare in the communities of Matatiele. These communities use indigenous medicine as well as cultural beliefs practices to address fertility problems, prevent miscarriages, manage labour, promote postpartum healing and for the wellbeing of children. The acquisition, preservation and dissemination of indigenous knowledge rely on oral traditions. A handful of participants reported that they write down indigenous knowledge and practices for preservation, as well as disseminate it through social media. The study identified indigenous knowledge management strategies such as the incorporation of indigenous in the school curriculum, research projects through universities and the department of health, and the use of media and broadcasting to positively portray indigenous knowledge, collaboration between community cultural groups and the government, as well as application of information and communication technology.