Indigenous knowledge systems : a case for traditional medicine among the Batswana

Abstract

This study is about the Indigenous Knowledge Systems, which filled the whole universe throughout African continent for some centuries back till today in our 21 the century. Needless to say this knowledge has been experienced daily in every village or city in Africa and there have been endless mystical stories revolving around Indigenous Knowledge Systems. Mbiti (I969: 197) says, the whole psychic atmosphere of African village life is filled with belief in the mystical power to heal, prophecies or to cast a spell or magic. What Mbiti is trying to bring to our attention is that Africans possess supernatural powers, which were inherited from their forefathers to heal, and or prophesise. The power behind their healing is somehow mystical to understand, especially if one is not inclined towards the use of herbs. The power behind healing a sick patient depends largely on herbal mastery. One may conclude by saying, mystical powers such as magic, sorcery and witchcraft affect everyone who Iives in Africa for better or worse. This research is based in its entirety on Ditlhare Isa Setswana ( African herbs), matla a tsona a go fodisa (their healing power) and tiriso ya tsona (their usage). On the one hand, this research examines various types of African doctors and their functions in our society, including their response to their calling, the interaction between Western doctors and traditional doctors, and the legal status of the latter as far as health and healing are concerned. On the other hand, this research also investigate a set of complex Indigenous Knowledge Systems, which began evolving centuries ago, their practice and their use in the time we live in.