A review of intangible cultural heritage elements of Isukuti artefact and Ritual among the Isukha community, Kakamega, Kenya

Abstract

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).