Practices and Challenges of Indigenous Knowledge on Soil and Water Conservation in Central Ethiopia The Case of Sebeta-Hawas District

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge is unique to a given culture or society. The objective of this study was to identify indigenous knowledge of Oromoo on soil and water conservation practices and the existing challenges in the case of Sebeta-Hawas District in Special Zone of Oromia. A qualitative method was employed, whereby a total of 85 respondents participated during the period between March and April 2017. Focus group discussion, interviews and observations were the methods we employed for the study. The results were presented in a form of narration using quoted phrases and statements. Accordingly, numbers of soil and water conservation practices are identified. However, there are challenges that negatively impact the indigenous knowledge practices of soil and water conservation in the study area, such as the expansion of Finfinnee city and urbanization, globalization and nationalization, weakening of indigenous institutions, population growth, lack of Mass Media and lack of technical know-how of professionals. It is recommended that Indigenous knowledge management of soil and water conservation practices should be addressed in the study area in order to tackle the challenges identified.