Cultural Wisdom for Climate Resilience: Dr. Kibet on Agro-Biodiversity and Traditional Practices

In the second part of our conversation with Dr. Staline Kibet, we learn how cultural practices contribute to agro-biodiversity, using the example of the Njahi bean, whose cultural significance in ceremonies has ensured its survival with minimal genetic modification, in contrast to heavily bred crops like maize that are more prone to diseases.

Dr. Kibet illuminates the Maasai community's unique coexistence with wildlife, such as elephants, rooted in cultural myths that discourage their consumption and instead promote economic benefits through tourism.

We learn about other culturally significant conservation practices across different communities. For example, the reverence for the fig tree as a sacred site among the Gikuyu community and the cultural importance of Pambara nuts within the Luhya community as fertility symbols exchanged during marriage contribute to conservation.

Dr. Kibet also points out how certain resilient crops like sorghum and millet have been maintained by communities largely without scientific intervention.

He illustrates the merging of scientific weather forecasting with traditional observation techniques, often yielding similar predictions, signifying a growing recognition within science of the value of indigenous knowledge.

Dr. Kibet emphasizes the necessity of communicating climate change in the "language of the community" to foster greater participation and highlights the positive shift with Indigenous Knowledge and Cultural Expression Bill passed in 2016 that recognizes Kenya’s cultural expressions.

He underscores the critical need to document invaluable indigenous knowledge through institutions like the National Museum of Kenya, not only for preservation but also to inform resource allocation strategies.

Bridging Knowledge Systems: Dr. Staline Kibet on Climate Adaptation in Kenya's Forests

In this episode, Dr. Staline Kibet, navigates the crucial connection of scientific and indigenous knowledge in our efforts to adapt to climate change. The conversation centers on the vital Eburu forest and the complex relationship between people and this natural resource, highlighting its economic, social, and cultural significance.

He explores the importance of the Mau complex as a critical water tower for the nation and highlights ongoing efforts to conserve essential pollinators, such as bees and butterflies in Eburu forest.

Dr. Kibet illuminates how the coexistence with the native Ogiek community has fostered a sanctuary for rare species like the Bongo. He expounds the profound indigenous knowledge of the Ogiek community, whose cultural identity and way of life are deeply intertwined with the honey they harvest from the forest, parallel to the Maasai community's connection with their cattle.

Through a case study of Nakuru County, we see how local communities, who perhaps not by defining climate change through scientific terminology, observe its impacts through increasing droughts, pest outbreaks, and heatwaves across its diverse ecological zones.

The expert addresses some community activities contributing to climate change emissions, including overfishing, pollution from flower farms, traditional irrigation practices, deforestation, soil erosion, and poor waste management.

Dr. Kibet discusses key interventions such as certified flower farms, agroforestry initiatives, and collaborative reforestation efforts aimed at building resilience within the region.

Kamoji Wachira, an esteemed environmental expert, reveals the urgent transition from

understanding climate change to recognizing the current climate emergency. He explores the

consequences of soil erosion and emphasizes the critical need for proactive environmental

management to ensure durability.

He informs about the rising impacts of the climate emergency across Africa, including

accelerating droughts, devastating floods, and unprecedented high heat that go above and beyond

human and animal tolerance.

The conversation relays the ripple effects of these changes, such as increased sickness rates,

climate-induced migration, intensified wind speeds, and the threat of coastal erosion due to sea-

level rise, all contributing to disease spread and significant psychological stress.

Wachira highlights the importance of adaptation strategies, advocating for advanced policies and

strong community-level actions where we reflect on the inspiring legacy of Nobel Laurate Prof

Wangari Maathai and her pivotal role in community-driven environmental management for both

economic and ecological benefits, and also observes the relationship between environmental

stewardship and prevailing political actions.

We learn about the crucial role of accountable leadership and political will in effectively

addressing the climate emergency.

He stresses the value of integrating expert and institutional knowledge with grassroots efforts,

focusing on securing and improving housing resilience, promoting better soil management

practices, and enhancing water collection techniques.