Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Decolonial Transformation in Governance Practices in Africa

This study examines the role of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in advancing decolonial transformation within governance practices across Africa. Despite decades of political independence, governance structures in many African states remain heavily influenced by colonial administrative models, often marginalising indigenous systems of authority, decision-making, and conflict resolution. This disconnect has contributed to persistent challenges, including weak public trust, limited community participation, and governance frameworks that are misaligned with local socio-cultural realities. The central problem to be addressed in this study is the continued dominance of Eurocentric governance paradigms that undermine legitimacy and effectiveness in African contexts. The study aims to explore how integrating IKS can foster inclusive, context-relevant, and participatory governance models that reflect African realities. It is grounded in decolonial theory, drawing on the works of Aníbal Quijano and Walter Mignolo, while also incorporating African communitarian philosophy, particularly Ubuntu, to frame governance as a relational, ethical, and collective process. A qualitative research methodology was employed, utilising case studies, document analysis and scholars’ literature across selected African countries, enabling an in-depth understanding of both formal governance systems and indigenous practices. Findings reveal that IKS significantly enhance participatory governance, social cohesion, and conflict resolution through consensus-based decision-making, traditional leadership structures, and community-based accountability mechanisms. These practices strengthen legitimacy and responsiveness at the local level. However, barriers such as institutional resistance, legal constraints, and perceptions of IKS as outdated or informal continue to limit meaningful integration. The study concludes that decolonial transformation in African governance requires the systematic recognition, validation, and integration of IKS into formal governance frameworks. It recommends the development of hybrid governance models, reform of legal and policy frameworks to recognise traditional authorities, and the promotion of inclusive policy dialogues that actively involve local communities. Ultimately, this research highlights IKS as a vital resource for reimagining governance and advancing sustainable, context-sensitive transformation in Africa.