Revisiting Indigenous Knowledge Systems for Sustainable Management of Natural Resources in Fast Track Resettlement Schemes. A Comparative Analysis of Indigenous Knowledge Systems Use In A1 Resettlement Schemes and Communal Areas in Chiredzi and Zaka Districts, Zimbabwe

Natural resources play a critical role to societies. Many people in developing countries conform their livelihoods and life style to nature. However, natural resources in resettlement areas of Zimbabwe are increasingly becoming degraded despite their importance. The study sought to assess how the adoption of indigenous knowledge systems for natural resources management in A1 resettlement areas can reduce resource depletion. The study employed a quasiexperimental design in which communal areas of Zaka District and A1 resettlement areas of Chiredzi District were used as experimental groups. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and interviews were used to gather data from traditional leaders and the elderly. In addition, observations were made to complement data from FGDs and interviews. The study found that a variety of indigenous knowledge systems still exist in communal areas and natural resources protected by indigenous knowledge systems were well preserved. However, in A1 resettlement areas where indigenous knowledge systems have been eroded due to the dynamic social, economic and physical environment there is excessive environmental degradation. There is therefore need to adopt and strengthen the use of indigenous knowledge systems in A1 resettlement areas to curb environmental degradation.