What is Traditional Knowledge (TK)

  • Traditional knowledge, also known as indigenous knowledge, refers to the systems of understanding, skills, and practices developed by local communities over centuries through interaction with their environment. In Ethiopia, this includes:-
  • Agricultural techniques adapted to diverse climates and terrains.
  • Medicinal practices using native plants and holistic healing.
  • Spiritual and religious teachings.
  • Craftsmanship, architecture, and ecological wisdom.

Fundamental Truth about TK in Ethiopa

  • It is community-owned and transmitted orally: Knowledge is shared through elders, rituals, and daily practices rather than formal institutions Heinrich Böll Stiftung.
  • It is holistic and spiritual: Wisdom is often tied to moral values, spirituality, and reverence for nature. As one elder put it, “The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom” Heinrich Böll Stiftung.
  • It is adaptive and resilient: Ethiopian communities have used traditional knowledge to survive droughts, preserve biodiversity, and maintain social cohesion.
  • Craftsmanship, architecture, and ecological wisdom.
  • It is vital for sustainable development: From climate adaptation to food security, traditional knowledge offers practical, time-tested solutions that align with local realities ijfmr.com.