Abstract
The challenges of climate change due to man’s activities are with grievous effect on survival of human and other living organisms. Africa is home to a wealth of indigenous knowledge systems that have long contributed to environmental sustainability. These traditional practices, deeply rooted in the continent’s cultural heritage, offer invaluable lessons for fostering a green environment in the face of modern environmental challenges. Indigenous African communities have historically employed eco-friendly methods such as agroforestry, permaculture, soil conservation, water harvesting, and biodiversity conservation. Practices like shifting cultivation, controlled burning, and sacred groves for forest preservation have contributed to the maintenance of ecological balance. Furthermore, indigenous knowledge includes effective waste management systems, the use of natural materials for housing, and the sustainable use of medicinal plants. In modern times, the relevance of these practices is growing as the continent faces deforestation, climate change, and biodiversity loss. African governments, NGOs, and international organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge with scientific approaches to enhance environmental conservation efforts. Empowering local communities and preserving indigenous knowledge are crucial steps toward achieving a sustainable and greener environment for future generations in Africa. This paper explores these African indigenous environmental practices, their contemporary relevance, and the potential for scaling them in modern green initiatives across the continent. It emphaszes the relevance of school administrators at higher education level in actualizing the indigenous dimension to green practices.
Presenters
Ademola AtandaDirector of Research, Research Management and International Programme, Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, Nigeria
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
The Value of Culture and the Demand of Change
KEYWORDS
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY, AFRICAN INDIGENOUS MEASURES, GREEN PRACTICES
