The present study has been developed within the framework of research and field activities related to knowledge and communication for sustainable natural resource management carried out by the Extension, Education and Communication Service (SDRE) of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The paper is the outcome of a desk study analyzing the Indigenous Knowledge and Information Systems (IKIS) of pastoralists in Eritrea, and was prepared in collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture of University of Perugia, Italy and the Pastoral and Environmental Network in the Horn of Africa (PENHA).
During many centuries indigenous knowledge has been the only source of information for pastoral societies. Such knowledge based on experiential learning, evolves constantly and is shared through local communication processes according to the characteristics of pastoral production practices, the culture and the environment. Nomadic herders’ indigenous knowledge has been often neglected by extension and research services which mainly focus on agricultural production. Only recently it has been recognized that to promote suitable development for pastoralists, it is necessary to properly address their knowledge and information needs. The present study intends to contribute to the definition of demand-led communication and advisory services aimed at pastoralists in Eritrea, through a better understanding of their indigenous knowledge on livestock production and natural resources management and their own sources and channels of information, as a prerequisite for future field activities.
Ester Zulberti
Chief,
Extension, Education and
Communication Service
Research, Extension and Training Division
