Traditional Ecological Knowledge brings people closer

BY STEVE EPHRAEM

An ongoing Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) dialogue in Chimanimani, running until July 11, has shown how deeply connected people are in surprising ways. 

The induction workshop that is facilitated by Gertrude Pswarayi and Method Gundidza from EarthLore Fkundation is teaching participants essential skills for leading community discussions on methodologies in designing and leading community dialogues that integrate Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Holistic Land and Livestock Management (HLLM), and agroecological practices.

This work forms part of a broader effort to restore degraded landscapes, seed sovereignty, and community resilience through participatory and culturally rooted approaches.

Since July 07, participants have explored the importance of proper introductions; revealing how people are linked through shared heritage and totems. What began as a gathering of strangers quickly turned into a discovery of hidden family ties. 

“When I arrived, I thought I didn’t know anyone here but as we introduced and discussed our totems and connections, I realised that nearly everyone here is my relative in some way,” said a participant from Gutu.

Organised by Participatory Ecological Land Use Management (PELUM Zimbabwe) and facilitated by Earthlore Foundation, the event has drawn regional delegates from Eswatini and South Africa. 

The discussions also cover broader topics, such as strengthening bonds with nature and the cultural importance of traditional African huts. Through these conversations, the dialogue highlights the wisdom of indigenous knowledge and its power to unite communities.