LEVERAGING INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS IN THE BEVERAGES SUBSECTOR

For eons, there has been debate between scientific knowledge systems and indigenous knowledge systems (IKS), as to which is more effective and applicable in the manufacturing sector.With the recent increased contributions that IKS’ have had on manufacturing and agriculture sectors, including cross cutting issues like climate change, it can be said that IKS are effective in enhancing production in those sectors, despite lacking research and in most cases scientific underpinnings.According to UNESCO, “Local and indigenous knowledge refers to the understandings, skills and philosophies developed by societies with long histories of interaction with their natural surroundings. For rural and indigenous peoples, local knowledge informs decision-making about fundamental aspects of day-to-day life.”Today, it can be seen that scientific methods continue to recognise indigenous systems in their practices and even methods of research, especially in pharmaceuticals, food and beverages. The use of IKS’ in scientific methods and research has been successful due to an emphasis on Research and […]