ABSTRACT
This chapter grounds on the Ubuntu/Hunhu conceptual framework as the basis of determining the extent of evolution of the indigenous knowledge systems and focuses on such areas as African Traditional Religion and indigenous conservation of the environment. It traces the history of indigenous communities with a view to determining the point(s) of departure from indigeneity. The chapter determines the indigenous knowledge systems that were in place as juxtaposed against the modern knowledge systems and their impact on the Ubuntu/Hunhu philosophy before deriving implications for human security. It informs by the conviction that Africa needs to address food security and to implement effective natural resource management strategies in order to enhance human security. The chapter takes heed of the definition by Popova-Gosart who regards Indigenous Knowledge System ‘as being part of the heritage of indigenous peoples, and of humanity’. It highlights the importance of indigenous knowledge systems to human security, with particular emphasis on food security.
