Uncovering Local Wisdom for Sustainable Futures
As part of the SAINO Project- “Revitalizing Nature-Culture Relationship and Recollection of Indigenous People in the Annapurna Area of Nepal”, Youth Alliance for Environment (YAE) conducted a comprehensive Mapping and Identification of Indigenous Knowledge-Based Initiatives in ten Indigenous and rural communities. This effort was supported by GEF-7, the Inclusive Conservation Initiative (ICI), and IUCN.
Where We Worked:
The initiative covered 10 culturally rich and ecologically sensitive villages located in the Annapurna Conservation Area:
Manang: Khangsar, Thanchok, Taal
Mustang: Thini, Syang, Chimang
Kaski: Ulleri, Chhomrong
Lamjung: Ghalegaun, Bhujung
Objective:
- To identify and document community-rooted, culturally significant, and environmentally sustainable practices that reflect traditional wisdom, support local livelihoods, and contribute to biodiversity conservation.
Our Approach:
The mapping process was carried out through highly participatory methods, ensuring community ownership and inclusion. These included:
- Team orientations and community consultations
- Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews
- Transect walks and participatory resource mapping
- Community validation and reflection sessions
This inclusive approach brought together diverse voices, including Indigenous knowledge holders, local leaders, women-led groups, youth clubs, and community-based institutions, ensuring that the outcomes truly reflected the priorities and lived realities of all community members, especially women and marginalized groups.
What We Achieved:
- 4,000+ community members directly engaged (50% women)
- 19,000 hectares of terrestrial protected areas identified for improved community-led conservation and sustainable use
- A rich catalogue of Indigenous knowledge-based initiatives with potential for livelihood development, ecological restoration, and climate resilience
- Strengthened community awareness and preparedness for future nature-based solutions and culturally grounded enterprise development
Why It Matters:
This initiative is helping shift the narrative from conservation for communities to conservation with communities. It recognizes the inherent value of Indigenous knowledge, not only in maintaining ecological balance but also in driving sustainable, inclusive development.
Looking Ahead:
The documented initiatives serve as a foundation for future program design, resource mobilization, and targeted support. YAE will continue working with local communities to refine and scale up these initiatives, promoting climate-smart, culturally rooted, and gender-responsive models of conservation and development.
“Our traditions are not just stories of the past, they are blueprints for living with nature. Through this mapping, we are reclaiming our knowledge and redefining our future.”.
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