https://repository.seku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/121 Sun, 26 Jul 2026 22:57:20 GMT 2026-07-26T22:57:20Z https://repository.seku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/8403 The devil’s advocate of “fake news” in contemporary world: risk to sustainable development Ngaira, Elphas M.; Kamau, Grace Fri, 01 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT https://repository.seku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/8403 2021-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.seku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/8402 Types of symbolic tacit indigenous knowledge capture processes of a bull as intangible cultural heritage among Isukha community, Kenya Ngaira, Elphas M.; Owano, Ashah; Oyieke, Lilian Tacit Indigenous Knowledge (TIK) forms part of people's history and cultural legacy, which is typically transmitted orally from elders in the community to younger generations. TIK is embedded in the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) which requires interpretation of the process, rituals, experiences, and practices unique to indigenous communities. TIK of a bull in Isukha community is a critical aspect of ICH though it stands a chance of being eroded considering the present practices. This chapter investigated the TIK capture processes of a bull as ICH among the Isukha Community in Kenya. It adopted the knowledge capture process model: identification, acquisition, refining, and storage. The study was guided by a descriptive qualitative research approach. The study was guided by a descriptive qualitative research approach. The data was collected through key in-depth interviews (KII) with community knowledge holders and focus discussion groups (FDG) focusing on observable interactions involving the bull DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3373-0204-1.ch013 Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://repository.seku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/8402 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.seku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/8401 A review of intangible cultural heritage elements of Isukuti artefact and Ritual among the Isukha community, Kakamega, Kenya Ngaira, Elphas M.; Owano, Ashah; Oyieke, Lilian Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) is a priceless indigenous knowledge treasure globally, and its full use has cultural and socioeconomic development value as espoused in Sustainable Development Goals 4, 5, 8, 11 and 16. ICH is manifested through oral traditions, expressions and language, performing arts, social practices, cultural spaces, rituals and festive events, knowledge and practices about nature and traditional craftsmanship. Intangible cultural heritage is fragile and requires urgent safeguarding, yet its transmission remains neglected. The paper reviewed Isukuti artefacts and rituals as intangible cultural heritage in the Isukha Community, Kakamega, to promote and facilitate their use to attain SDGs 4, 5, 8, 11 and 16. The objectives were to identify the SDGs linked to Isukuti artefacts and rituals, establish enactments of Isukuti rituals and artefacts, and ascertain the challenges of Isukuti artefacts and rituals as intangible cultural heritage among the Isukha community. Theoretical triangulation of symbolism and semiotics, functionalist perspective and cultural evolution approaches were employed. The methodology adopted was a descriptive qualitative approach and content analysis. It focused on Isukuti artefacts and rituals by observing and interviewing knowledge holders and practitioners. For truth value in qualitative research findings, crystallisation, authenticity and integrity were maximised. Findings show that Isukuti artefacts and ritual endangerment and fragility can be mitigated. The heritage has contributing potential to the achievement of SDGs such as cultural preservation (SDG 11), promotion of gender equality (SDG 5), economic growth through tourism (SDG 8), education and awareness (SDG 4), and peace, justice and vital institutions (SDG 16). Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://repository.seku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/8401 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.seku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/8306 Unveiling the traditional wisdom of the cholistan desert plants: Desert healers of Pakistan Wariss, Hafiz M.; Alam, Khurshid; Ahmad, Saeed; Imran, Muhammad; Wambulwa, Moses C.; Arunachalam, Karuppusamy; Li, Wen-Jun Traditional healers in the Cholistan Desert of Pakistan play a crucial role in local healthcare, leveraging deep knowledge of the region’s unique flora where modern medical facilities are scarce. This chapter documents 50 plant species from 45 genera and 26 families, comprising 26 herbs, 16 shrubs, and 6 trees, with grasses (Poaceae) and sedges (Cyperaceae) being the least common. Perennial plants dominate with 34 species, while 16 are annual. The most represented family is Fabaceae, followed by Amaranthaceae, Apocynaceae, Asteraceae, Convolvulaceae, Solanaceae, and Zygophyllaceae. Medicinal uses range from treating digestive disorders to skin conditions. Key plants include Boerhavia diffusa for stomach ailments and kidney stones; Citrullus colocynthis, Prosopis cineraria, and Abutilon pannosum var. pannosum for digestive issues; and Cressa cretica and Cleome brachycarpa for skin diseases. Preparation methods are mainly powders, decoctions, and infusions, with whole plants (27%), leaves (16%), and roots (12%) commonly used. This study underscores the essential role of traditional healers in preserving and transmitting medicinal knowledge, contributing to sustainable healthcare solutions. By documenting this heritage, the chapter ensures that the medicinal potential of Cholistan’s plants continues to benefit local and global communities. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-91945-9_8 Sat, 14 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://repository.seku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/8306 2026-02-14T00:00:00Z