Indigenous knowledge is the dynamic information base of a society,
facilitating communication and decision-making. It is the cornerstone of
many modern-day innovations in science and technology. It is also a
ready and valuable resource for sustainable and resilient livelihoods,
and attracts increasing public interest due to its applications in
bio-technology, health, bioprospecting, pharmaceuticals, agriculture,
food preparation, mathematics and astronomy. INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE OF
NAMIBIA is a fascinating compendium aimed at a wide readership of
academics and students, government officials, policy makers, and
development partners. The 17 chapters examine the indigenous knowledge
of medicinal plants for treating HIV/AIDS, malaria, cancer, and other
microbial infections of humans and livestock; indigenous foods; coping
and response strategies in dealing with human-wildlife conflicts,
floods, gender, climate change and the management of natural resources.
A new rationalisation of adolescent customary and initiation ceremonies
is recommended in response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic; and a case study of
the San people of Namibia speaks to the challenges of harmonising modern
education with that of indigenous people.
