In recent years, the interests on the social world and the physical world of indigenous peoples have been on the increase, resulting in a gradual growth of literature on indigenous or tribal peoples of the world. Such works have provided an understanding on the situation of indigenous peoples. However, more studies are required on documenting indigenous knowledge and practices.

The current work was taken up as part of the appreciative inquiry and effort to contribute towards the body of knowledge on indigenous peoples’ social world and their landscape. In this regard FAO in collaboration with IGWIA and other partners studied four cases of matrilineal and matrilocal indigenous societies: Khasi, Wayuu, Mosso and Shipibo-Conibo people.