Inclusive innovations in the transfer of tacit Indigenous knowledge of a bull as intangible cultural heritage among the Isukha community, Kenya

Abstract

Tacit indigenous knowledge plays a crucial role in discussions surrounding inclusive innovation, emphasizing the diversity of relevant stakeholders and marginalised viewpoints. Tacit indigenous knowledge is the deep-rooted, intuitive understanding and expertise that resides within individuals. The significance of tacit indigenous knowledge transfer includes cultural preservation through cultural ceremonies that convey important cultural meanings and build community resilience. Safeguarding intangible cultural heritage is contingent upon the effective transmission of tacit indigenous knowledge across generations. This paper investigated inclusive innovations in the transfer of tacit indigenous knowledge of a bull, a central symbol in the Intangible Cultural Heritage among the Isukha Community in Kenya. Specifically, the study focused on strategies and approaches to inclusive innovations, namely: participatory methods; learning by interacting; apprenticeships and mentorship; integration of knowledge systems; strengthening local institutions and collaborative decision-making. The study adopted the Knowledge Transfer Process Model, which involves the following phases: Identify critical knowledge, Prioritize which knowledge is most important to transfer, Capture and Transfer this knowledge using various methods, and finally Share and Store it for future access and reuse. To achieve this, the study was guided by a descriptive qualitative research approach including ethnographic fieldwork, oral histories, and participatory observation. Data were collected through key in-depth interviews with community knowledge holders and focus group discussions focusing on observable interactions involving the bull, such as gestures, rituals, stories, songs, and healing practices. The community population was 111,743. A Sample size of 60 bull raisers, elders, culture teachers, bull enthusiasts, and indigenous knowledge experts was used. Inclusive innovations are vital in sustaining the transfer of tacit indigenous knowledge assets among the Isukha. The interplay of traditional practices and inclusive technologies presents new challenges and opportunities in tacit knowledge transfer of a bull among the Isukha community. Challenges include indigenous data sovereignty and free prior informed consent. Benefits include sustainable solutions, community empowerment, and overall deeper understanding of cultural processes and matters of a bull. The paper contributes to the case studies of indigenous communities and strengthens discussions on intangible cultural heritage of a bull through inclusive technologies and concludes that traditional oral methods are insufficient against cultural erosion. Researchers recommend implementing a structured knowledge capture model that integrates traditional practices with inclusive innovations to bridge generational and gendered gaps as a safeguard to this heritage.