dc.description.abstract |
The main purpose of this study was to explore the practices, challenges and contributions of
indigenous knowledge toward the community’s economic development. To this end, a qualitative
research approach was employed with a Case study design. Both primary and secondary data
were collected. Primary data were collected through interview, focus group discussion,
observation and key informant interview whereas secondary data were collected through
document review, published and unpublished posts. Among the total community population of
(1300), 24 participants were included in the study. 13 participants were selected for interview
using a multistage sampling technique in consideration of a varied profession; seven participants
were selected for focus group discussion using Purposive sampling and four participants were
selected for key informant interview using purposive sampling with frame of experience and
elderliness. Narrative analysis was used to make sense of the explored qualitative data. The major
findings of the study reveals that the Negede-Woyto community is rich in indigenous practices
which contributed to their economic development. However, there were various challenges in
using indigenous knowledge for the community’s economic development. Among the most widely
practiced indigenous knowledge in the community were found to be fishery, Basketry and papyrus
crafts, diving/ corpse finding and stone mason. Whereas the major challenges were found to be
lack of resources and raw material; rapid technological changes; challenges related to the market;
attitudinal and other challenges. Based on the findings, it was concluded that indigenous
knowledge is contributing to the community economic development. However, they are
challenging and requires overcoming the rapid changing technologies and the scarcity of
resources. Accordingly, based on the finding relevant recommendations were forwarded. |
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