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Nature as a Means of Preserving Siswati Indigenous Knowledge Systems

Nature as a Means of Preserving Siswati Indigenous Knowledge Systems
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Author(s): Muzi Matfunjwa (North-West University, South Africa)and Respect Mlambo (North-West University, South Africa)
Copyright: 2025
Pages: 36
Source title: Resurgence and Revalorization of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in the Contemporary Society
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Tlou Maggie Masenya (Durban University of Technology, South Africa)and Monicca Thulisile Bhuda (University of Mpumalanga, South Africa)
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3373-4124-8.ch011

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Abstract

This chapter aims to highlight the importance of nature and describe how it sustains Siswati indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) in Eswatini. Grounded in the Biocultural Diversity Framework and descriptive qualitative design, data for analysis was collected from secondary sources. Thematic analysis was employed to explore how nature supports traditional Siswati practices, beliefs, and knowledge systems. The results revealed that traditional food, medicine, attire and religious practices are embedded in natural features. The study also found that challenges such as land deforestation, wildfires and overharvesting contribute to the scarcity of plants and trees as well as animal products used for traditional medicines and food. Strategies that could alleviate some of these challenges such as environmental acts, establishing botanical gardens and involving conservatory stakeholders were proposed. Therefore, this study contributes to a deeper understanding on the relationship between biocultural diversity and Siswati IKS, offering insights into their maintenance.

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