Mainstreaming Digital Platforms in Curating Indigenous Knowledge for Sustainable Development in Kenya

Abstract

The rapid evolution of digital platforms is an opportunity for custodians of indigenous knowledge (IK) to utilise digital spaces to enhance IK for promoting sustainable development in Kenya. IK refers to skills, systems, and practices developed and used by indigenous people over generations to sustain livelihoods, manage natural resources and preserve cultural heritage. Safeguarding IK in Kenya involves recognising, respecting, and protecting the IK for posterity. Unfortunately, indigenous communities in Kenya continue to be ignored and forgotten in policy. Therefore, implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) should include protecting IK. The objectives of this paper are to (i) describe the digital platforms currently used in Kenya to curate IK; (ii) analyse the effectiveness of digital platforms in preserving and disseminating IK; and (iii) propose recommendations for policymakers to consider when integrating digital platforms in curating IK and implementation of SDGs in Kenya. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Quantitative data was collected through bibliometrics analysis. Qualitative data was collected using a systematic literature review. Data was collected from Google Scholar using Harzing’s “Publish or Perish” software, analysed using Microsoft Excel, Notepad, and VOSviewer, and presented using tables, graphs, and figures. The study findings would be helpful in providing recommendations to inform policymakers on the importance of using digital platforms to curate IK for the promotion of SDGs in Kenya. The study demonstrates that digital platforms can be used to promote the sharing of knowledge and best practices amongst different indigenous communities in Kenya and for policymakers to enact and review policy frameworks on the use of digital platforms to prevent IK from potential loss or exploitation. The research is original in scope and coverage. Keywords: Innovation, community-led development, human rights, emerging trends.