THE ROLE OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE IN CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION: A STUDY OF CHONGWE DISTRICT, ZAMBIA

Abstract

Climate change is a complex challenge affecting the entire globe, in developing nations, Small scale farmers and rural communities in developing countries, particularly Zambia, are increasingly experiencing challenges to their livelihood due to climate change, which is a complicated issue that affects the entire world. These threats include unpredictable rainfall, prolonged droughts, and shifting climatic patterns. Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) offer a multitude of tried-and true, community-driven approaches to climate adaptation, whereas contemporary adaptation programs have frequently placed an emphasis on technology solutions. In Chongwe District, Zambia, this study examines the importance of indigenous knowledge in climate change adaptation by evaluating how local populations see climate variability and how they employ customs to cope with its effects. A mixed-methods approach was used to gather and collate data from 321 respondents using focus groups, surveys, and semi-structured interviews. The findings demonstrate the profound ecological knowledge of indigenous communities, which forecast weather changes by utilizing natural indications including animal behavior, lunar characteristics, and seasonal wind variations. Rainwater gathering techniques, polyculture farming, and soil conservation are examples of indigenous adaptation mechanisms that have supported communities for many centuries. Indigenous methods are effective in lowering food hunger, protecting biodiversity, and lessening climate shock susceptibility. However, indigenous knowledge systems continue to be largely disregarded in official climate policies, despite their significant influence. The viability and applicability of IKS are impacted by institutional issues such the dominance of Western agricultural methods, a lack of government assistance, and poor policy recognition. In addition to enhancing resilience in rural communities, strengthening indigenous knowledge systems through policy support, the reinforcement of time-tested indigenous practices, and the encouragement of collaboration between IKS and scientific knowledge will also help to preserve biodiversity and cultural heritage for future generations.