Traditional ecological knowledge of a riverine forest in Turkana, Kenya: Implications for research and management

Abstract

This paper presents a study based on qualitative and quantitative data collection on traditional ecological knowledge in northern Kenya. Eighty five percent of the 113 woody species have 105 specific uses for domestic or pastoral purposes. Indigenous knowledge is both relevant to science and for conservation. Ekwar is a system that determines the rights to collect NTFPs such as firewood, fruits, building materials etc. Outsiders need permission to access NTFPs, and the study calls for the re-examination of the present system that does not include divergent interests.