SADC, University of KwaZulu-Natal explore indigenous knowledge for industrialisation

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is exploring ways to use indigenous knowledge, youth innovation and digital technology to support regional industrialisation, food security and climate resilience, the bloc said on Thursday.

SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi made the remarks during a visit to the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in Durban, where he met researchers at the African Institute in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (AIIKS), a UNESCO centre.

The discussions focused on a proposed framework for cooperation between SADC and AIIKS, including efforts to integrate indigenous knowledge with science, technology and innovation to address development challenges across the region.

Magosi said indigenous knowledge was an important regional asset that should be preserved, documented and passed to future generations, while urging greater value addition within Southern Africa.

Researchers led by H.O. Kaya, director of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation–National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Indigenous Knowledge Systems and coordinator of AIIKS, presented the institute’s work linking traditional knowledge holders and communities with researchers to develop practical solutions.

The proposed partnership would also focus on young people and digital innovation, including regional youth networks, innovation exchanges and initiatives applying indigenous knowledge to agriculture, environmental conservation, climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods.

Magosi also met young learners taking part in AIIKS programmes, who presented projects demonstrating how they were applying knowledge and innovation to challenges in their communities.

He later toured the institute’s displays featuring indigenous knowledge, research, innovation and community-based initiatives.

The engagement comes ahead of a SADC public lecture at UKZN on Friday, where South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who is also SADC chairperson, is scheduled to deliver the keynote address.

SADC said stronger cooperation with UKZN and AIIKS could help preserve indigenous knowledge while ensuring it contributes to economic transformation and sustainable development in the region.

Magosi was accompanied by senior SADC officials, including Director of Policy Planning and Resource Mobilisation Mike Masiye and Director of Industrial Development and Trade Dhunraj Kassee.