ABSTRACT
Different people, groups of people and organizations have perceived TK differently. Previously, it was regarded as barbaric, heathen, devilish and witchcraft (Kamau, 2004, p167; Kihwelo, 2005, p347). However, these perceptions have not been static, but have been transformed with time and by changes in global events. One such event is the emergence of modern biotechnologies, which have enhanced not only the economic, scientific and commercial value of GRs, but also the TK associated with them (the World Intellectual Property Organization, WIPO/TK/CEI/00/INF.5). Today, TK is known to be a vital lead for inventions in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, agricultural and chemical industries, among others. Hence, many researchers from Western countries travel to developing countries, which are rich in TK, in search of it and the biological resources associated with it. Greater appreciation and respect for TK is continuing to draw international attention to issues related to it (WIPO/TK/CEI/00/INF.5).
