Using indigenous knowledge in a subsistence society of Sudan

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Book chapter

Title:	Using indigenous knowledge in a subsistence society of Sudan
Author:	Sharland, Roger W.
Book title:	The cultural dimension of development: indigenous knowledge systems
Year:	1995
Pages:	385-395
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Sudan
Subjects:	Moru subsistence farming
Abstract:	Subsistence production is often seen as a problem by agriculturalists and other professionals seeking to introduce new technologies and ideas. However, the values and priorities of a subsistence society are rational responses to the environment in which they are located. This paper outlines some ways in which technological change can be related to indigenous knowledge, based on a detailed study of, and work with, the Moru in southern Sudan. From experience in the Moru situation, eight scenarios have emerged for using indigenous knowledge within a system of formal extension firmly based within the farm families, values and means of production, which include indigenous experimentation: better communication and identification of needs - the sharing of indigenous technology - reinforcing indigenous technology with scientific basis - intertwining indigenous and formal scientific knowledge - identifying harmful practices and explaining problems - identifying areas where solutions are needed from outside - using indigenous change processes - the creation of an indigenous technical foundation.