Beyond a tokenistic inclusion of indigenous knowledge systems in protected area governance and management in Okhahlamba-Drakensberg. (15th March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moyo, Inocent
• Is Part Of: African geographical review. Volume 42:Number 2(2023)
• Page Start: 141
• Page End: 156
• Publication Date: 2023-03-15
• Subjects: Conservation -- environment -- indigenous knowledge systems -- protected areas -- co-management; Africa -- Geography -- Periodicals; Africa -- Description and travel -- Periodicals; 916.005
• DOI: 10.1080/19376812.2021.1997613
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1937-6812

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This paper explores the perception of indigenous communities towards the co-management framework and whether or not this empowered them to utilise their indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) in the management and governance of the Protected Area (PA) in Okhahlamba-Drakensberg. IKS is excluded from the political systems of PA governance but this can be remedied through participation of indigenous communities in the agenda-setting around environmental management programmes. Indigenous community members should be co-managers at every level of the political power hierarchy of the PA if entrenched asymmetrical power relations are to be dismantled and replaced by meaningful partnership that transcends tokenistic normativity.