To What Extent Have Indigenous Knowledge Systems Been Affected by Modern Knowledge Systems?

Indigenous knowledge has been defined as the local knowledge that is unique to a given culture or society. African societies have survived through indigenous knowledge systems as they practice agriculture, health care, food preparation, edu- cation and natural resource management. In rural communities where farming is the main activity; methods of farming employed have always produced high yields. For various ailments, traditional medicine has been applied to the relief of patients. Tradi- tional food (which is now highly recommended for health reasons) has always had its way of preparation. Traditional education has been transmitted from generation to generation in the form of folklore which plays a vital role in preserving traditional values and moralise children as well as adults. Natural resources have been managed effectively (like water, soil, and vegetation) while benefitting from them. This indigenous knowledge enables the members of society to work together harmoniously as they share common values and activities. However indigenous knowledge systems have become dynamic as individuals are influenced by modern knowledge systems that they come into contact with. This position paper aims at addressing to what extent the indi- genous knowledge systems have been affected by modern systems.