Gendered dynamics and cultural values in natural resource management: A case study from the Zambezi Region, Namibia

This study explores the integral role of cultural values in natural resource management (NRM) and community decision-making within Namibia's Zambezi Region. Using a mixed-methods approach comprising of 120 household surveys, three group meetings, this study examines how tradition, modernity, policies, and socio-economic factors interact. Results revealed that males are much more likely than females to enforce traditional customs (for example how an individual should dress in public and how they should identify themselves as an ethnic group) and higher education levels are associated with more positive perceptions of NRM (p = <0.05). Furthermore, key findings highlight that while traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) remains foundational to NRM among local communities, its role is increasingly challenged by modernization, shifting livelihoods, and evolving governance. Unlike previous studies, this research identifies a distinct gendered contrast where males enforce customs while females preserve knowledge, highlighting a critical implementation gap. Policy recommendations stress the necessity of inclusive, context-sensitive strategies that harness both traditional values and scientific management approaches to promote sustainable resource use and community well-being. The bibliometric analysis provides three key insights for strengthening NRM policies in the Zambezi Region. These are (i) cultural values that should be integrated into governance frameworks, (ii) traditional knowledge contributes to sustainability and (iii) economic and ecological factors must be balanced. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on social-ecological systems by highlighting the critical role of TEK in conservation governance. A key finding is the existence of gendered disparities in the application and enforcement of TEK, with implications for policy and practice in community-based natural resource management. Follow up research is required.