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Entebbe, Uganda hosted the inaugural Annual International Conference on Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Restorative Development in Africa from May 19 to 21, 2025.
Organised by the African Indigenous Knowledge Research Network (AIKRN) in partnership with Carleton University and the Mastercard Foundation, the event convened over 300 participants from across Africa and beyond, including countries such as Benin, Botswana, Canada, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The conference brought together researchers, Indigenous leaders, scholars, youth, and policymakers to explore the untapped potential of Indigenous knowledge in driving economic opportunities, restoring cultural pride, and shaping sustainable futures—especially for Africa’s youth.
Mastercard Foundation CEO Reeta Roy urged a shift from traditional development metrics to approaches centred on community voices and lived experiences.
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Highlighting the success of community-led partnerships, Roy emphasised the importance of grassroots financial systems such as Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) in empowering local economies.
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Harnessing Indigenous wisdom for innovation and growth
Dr Samuel Ojo Oloruntoba, AIKRN’s founding convener, described the conference as a bold vision to leverage Indigenous knowledge beyond preservation, using it to tackle challenges like youth unemployment, climate change, and healthcare through ethical innovation and community research.
Professor Justus Kwetegyeka of Kyambogo University called for integrating Indigenous knowledge into formal education and ensuring fair recognition and compensation for Indigenous communities.
Carleton University Vice-Chancellor Professor Wisdom Tettey stressed the need to elevate Indigenous knowledge to challenge misconceptions and influence policies.
The conference serves as a powerful call to action for academia, governments, and communities to root Africa’s development in its own rich heritage, co-created with the voices and leadership of Indigenous peoples.
Over the remaining days, participants continue to explore how ancient wisdom can fuel modern transformation across economic, educational, and cultural spheres.