In Kenya, with rapid urbanization and modernization taking place, generations of young people are losing their connections to their traditional cultures. The endangerment of traditional knowledge, values and practices is leading to increased conflict, environmental degradation, extinction of important medicinal plants, discrimination, disenfranchisement and loss of livelihoods.
Indigenous knowledge systems and culture are deep resources for the sustainable management of lands, health improvements and peace building efforts. Unfortunately, ongoing colonialism, racism, exploitation and dispossession of indigenous peoples have led to structural inequalities and societal exclusion and vulnerability.
TICAH has been working with traditional plant medicine experts, elders, peacekeepers and musicians to create safe spaces where traditional knowledge can be shared and preserved, common challenges discussed and overcome and connections to young communities made.
There is a lot that contemporary humans can learn from indigenous practices and traditional knowledge in order to improve our health, relationships, communities and the planet. Diversity and inclusion of cultures and traditions is critical to the health of Kenya and other countries. The UN points out that traditional knowledge, “can offer valuable responses to climate change, food insecurity, reducing inequalities and other challenges that we are trying to resolve through the Sustainable Development Goals.”
Connecting with traditional Kenyan elders to encourage cross-cultural and cross-generational learning on plant medicine, peacebuilding, ceremony and music
Working with elders and youth of the Maasai and Mijikenda to tackle the challenges of elder murders and girls education
TICAH managed cultural spaces within the National Museums of Kenya system for learning, meditation and peace: Medicine Shield Garden, Peace Path Labyrinth, Kaya ya Mto sculptures and DreamKona public art space.
Working with other culture organisations to advocate on behalf of supportive policies for the protection and use of traditional herbal medicine.
With your support, TICAH will continue to listen to Kenyan traditional elders, connect generations with culture and find solutions to our challenges through culture and community.
