“Today is different. We are here to set the record straight, to celebrate indigenous knowledge, to respect it, and, more importantly, to explore ways to safeguard it legally. Without legal protection, this cherished knowledge risks becoming another forgotten ‘vintage’ idea. So, let’s engage with our pens, thinking caps, and even a touch of humour because while addressing serious matters, we aim to make the experience memorable. And rest assured, this symposium will be anything but dull!”
These words were uttered by Dr Xolisile Khanyile during the Law Symposium recently organised by the University of Zululand’s (UNIZULU) Department of Law.
The event was convened under the theme “Promoting and Protecting Indigenous Knowledge through the Rule of Law” and sought to develop a formal legal framework to safeguard and promote indigenous knowledge systems, underscoring their importance both in South Africa and globally.
Launching the programme, Head of the Law Department Professor Tholaine Matadi expressed her honour and privilege in hosting the attendees, both in person and online. She highlighted that this was the second Law Symposium following its inaugural edition in 2018 and that the department intended to establish it as an annual event.
Said Prof Matadi, “We must explore how we as legal professional academics and policymakers can bridge the gap in existing frameworks to ensure meaningful protection. Safeguarding indigenous knowledge is not only about preserving the past but also shaping the future rooted in respect, equity, and innovation.” The HOD further mentioned that the symposium aimed to inspire meaningful dialogue, foster interdisciplinary collaboration and capitalise on tangible outcomes.
The event featured an impressive lineup of distinguished keynote speakers who participated both virtually and in person. These included UNIZULU’s Kwanda Mngomezulu, Prof Marco Greggi from Italy, Prof Priti Saxena from India, Prof Rajendra Parsad Gunpath from Mauritius and Prof. Orsolya Szeibert from Hungary. Their discussions focused on critical issues such as safeguarding indigenous and local knowledge and integrating African traditional medicine into healthcare systems under South Africa’s emerging National Health Insurance Act. Additional topics that were unpacked included protections for minorities, children’s rights, language barriers, and the legal and judicial protection of indigenous knowledge in various jurisdictions, including India. UNIZULU lecturers Michael Buthelezi and Prof Desan Iyer served as discussants, providing summaries and thought-provoking insights on the topics discussed. Their contributions enriched conversations on issues such as the protection of indigenous tribes within the framework of international human rights law and South African Law.
In her concluding remarks, Prof Lizelle Calvino delivered the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all attendees for their active participation. She urged researchers to persist in their quest to uncover and develop valuable insights into indigenous knowledge, emphasising the importance of continuous study in this critical field. Prof Calvino further highlighted the need for ongoing research to ensure the preservation, promotion, and intergenerational transmission of indigenous knowledge systems, thereby safeguarding this cultural wealth for the future.
– Pamela Mlaba
Pictures: Xolani Ncube
