INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS

Many South Africans rely on traditional healers for their primary healthcare needs. Given the vital importance of indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) in healthcare, The Innovation Hub will be prioritising the development of IKS researchers and entrepreneurs through its various programmes as it seeks to stimulate socio-economic development. Yet despite this, the crucial role of traditional medicines remains undervalued, and the commercial value of indigenous medicinal plants is largely unrealised.

Researchers estimate that the trade of traditional medicines generates more than R2.9 billion every year and provides a major source of income to over 133,000 people across the country, many of whom live in rural areas, pointing to the industry’s significant potential as an economic contributor.

Recognising the importance and relevance of indigenous knowledge systems, The Innovation Hub, through its Bio-economy Unit, offers a variety of strategic programmes such as the CoachLab IKS Entrepreneurship Programme, which targets SMMEs, indigenous knowledge holders and scientists who are technologically savvy but require business skills.

This type of support is essential for stimulating the development of IKS through entrepreneurship training and possible incubation at The Innovation Hub. Through this support, the aim is to integrate indigenous wisdom with appropriate business practices that can yield robust enterprises.

The CoachLab IKS Entrepreneurship Programme believes that embracing one’s cultural intelligence can lead to entrepreneurial success, and equips participants with the necessary skills and techniques to develop a well-rounded business model.

Research organisations such as the CSIR and various tertiary institutions offer product development support by performing critical safety tests, testing the mineral content of products, and contributing towards advice formulation. In addition, organisations such as the Technology Innovation Agency and the Department of Science and Innovation are also providing financial support to IKS-based innovations at various levels.

www.theinnovationhub.com