Use of geospatial technologies
In cooperation with the EU-ACP Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA, African indigenous peoples are experimenting with geospatial technologies such as participatory 3D modeling (P3DM), and low-tech, participatory methodologies such as eco-cultural mapping. These detailed and geo-referenced models provide a bridge between oral cultures and IT or other media for understanding indigenous and local knowledge of landscape, seascapes and governance models. The methodologies can be applied for education, planning, heritage management, migratory information, conflict resolution and planning for climate change impacts and resilience building.
P3DM is a relatively inexpensive methodology and that can be easily integrated into GIS systems for further usage. The participatory approach ensures that local knowledge and values drive the mapping / modeling, while the application is relevant at different scales of governance and decision-making. Geo-referencing allows the modeling to be recognizable to a wide range of different users, from non-literate expert knowledge holders to government officials, parks managers and landscape planners.
Participatory methodologies are empowering to local communities. They recognise the complexity and sophistication of their knowledge, even if they may otherwise feel they have low educational backgrounds. Outsiders, notably government officials and conservationists see the detail and sophistication of the knowledge systems which helps address historic biases and marginalization. The maps are physical and can be used for a wide range of applications, including new challenges around climate impacts. If applied properly, the P3DM can also offset gender-biases in knowledge management and decision-making.