The influence of indigenous knowledge sharing practices on traditional medicine use: A case of Ludewa District, Njombe, Tanzania

Shaban Omary Chika; Ronald Benard  Tarimo; Frank well Dulle

doi:10.51867/AQSSR.3.3.57

Authors

Shaban Omary Chika Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania Author https://orcid.org/0009-0006-6270-606X
Ronald Benard Tarimo Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania Author https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6398-7541
Frank well Dulle Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania Author https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2016-6596

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/AQSSR.3.3.57

Keywords:

Sharing Practices, Local Knowledge, Ludewa, Tanzania, Indigenous Knowledge, Traditional Medicine

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge-sharing practices persist as fundamental components that facilitate the development of traditional medicine worldwide. It postulates a wealth of knowledge and experience that represents a significant resource in the sustainable development of society. Yet, the extent to which knowledge-sharing practices influence traditional medicine use in Tanzania, particularly in Ludewa District, remains insufficiently understood. This study assessed the influence of indigenous knowledge-sharing practices on traditional medicine use in Ludewa District, Njombe, Tanzania. Specifically, the study examined the influence of indigenous knowledge-sharing practices on the use of traditional medicine. The study was guided by the theory of indigenous knowledge management system theory (IKMS). Concurrent mixed-methods research approach was used. However, 252 participants were studied, and 8 traditional healers were interviewed. The study sample was selected using purposive, simple, and snowball sampling techniques. Collected data was coded on IBM SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistical analysis, including means, frequencies, and percentages, was used, and multiple linear regression was employed to analyze the influence of indigenous knowledge-sharing practices on traditional medicine use. Findings revealed that indigenous knowledge-sharing practices, such as mentorship and apprenticeship, community of practice, and peer learning, are the major practices that have positively influenced the use of traditional medicine. However, peer learning (β = 0.111, p = 0.022) is a key factor that significantly influences the use of traditional medicine. The study recommends that the Ministry of Health, through the Traditional Medicine and Alternative Health Council, establish formal mentorship programs to encourage knowledge transfer and the proper imparting of medicinal knowledge to the new generation, and to encourage the active use of traditional medicine.

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