Biodiversity, Indigenous Knowledge, and Governance in Africa: An In‐Depth Review
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This review synthesizes the recent literature (2023–2025) at the intersection of biodiversity conservation, international relations, and local knowledge systems, with a special focus on Nigeria and Africa more broadly. Six core studies are examined, covering thematic areas such as climate policy alignment, indigenous ecological knowledge (IEK), sacred forests and religious belief systems, biodiversity monitoring, and pan‐African conservation agendas (notably the "30 by 30" target). Across these works, several recurring tensions emerge: the disjunction between global environmental commitments and local realities; the under‐recognition of indigenous/local knowledge in law and policy; issues of equity, participation, and governance; data and monitoring deficits; and funding limitations. The review highlights how conservation effectiveness in Africa, and in Nigeria in particular, depends upon integrating local cultural / spiritual practices, securing indigenous rights, improving data infrastructures, and designing governance frameworks that bridge levels (local, national, regional, international). Recommendations are forwarded for future research and policy design, including the need for comparative case studies, participatory approaches, legal reforms that respect customary systems, and long‐term capacity building.
Authors: Daniel Chukwuma Nzereogu, PhD1, Chukwu, Chikaodinaka James2
Language: English
Subfield: Global and Planetary Change
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7095051690
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