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09/08/24

Reviving Africa’s indigenous science knowledge

Mukombero (White's ginger), an indigenous African plant is facing extinction.
Mukombero (White's ginger), an indigenous African plant is facing extinction. Copyright: Courtesy of Kenneth Monjero
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Season 4, Episode 48

In a continent with so many different cultures and traditions, indigenous knowledge has enormous potential to inform and strengthen scientific research. However, the legacy of colonialism has pushed African indigenous science knowledge to the fringes.

In this episode of African Science Focus, reporter Michael Kaloki speaks with African scientists and researchers about the importance of incorporating local knowledge in science communication.

Ayodele Ibiyemi, a US-based Nigerian culture researcher, notes that while colonial systems affected Africa’s culture and displaced its science knowledge, the continent is taking steps to regain its identity.

Kenneth Monjero, a Kenyan biotechnologist, highlights a critical disconnect between young people and their indigenous science. 

To bridge this gap, Temilade Sesan, a Nigerian social development researcher, proposes a fundamental shift in education that reflects local realities including teaching STEM subjects in local languages.

This podcast was supported by the Science Granting Councils Initiative which aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of 18 public science funding agencies in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at [email protected]

Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station

This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.