Revitalization and Digital Preservation of Indigenous Knowledge Systems for Sustainable Development of Indigenous Communities in South Africa

Abstract

South Africa has been regarded as one of the African countries with rich in culture and repository of knowledge referred to as indigenous knowledge. This knowledge is a significant resource which could contribute to the sustainability development of rural communities and society at large. Given that this valuable knowledge is irreplaceable, its promotion and protection is critical. Digital preservation has become a popular method for revitalization and safeguarding indigenous knowledge in recent years. The purpose of this study was to determine how digital preservation can be used in enhancing long-term access to indigenous knowledge for sustainable development of indigenous communities in South Africa. This study used literature review to investigate strategies being established in South Africa and different parts of the world to revitalize and digitally preserve indigenous knowledge for the benefits of indigenous communities. This study established that indigenous knowledge owners and their communities do not have mechanisms and policy being put in place for effective digital preservation of their indigenous knowledge. The study thus recommends that anticolonial strategies and policy in the protection of indigenous knowledge systems be implemented and be the subject of a real training and awareness raising programme for community members.

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