Vol. 119 No. 2 (2025)
Research Papers

Exploring Indigenous Knowledge and Practices: Cultural and Ecological Dimensions of Spice Diversity in Hadiya and Kambata-Tembaro, Central Ethiopia

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  • Osie Mulatu
Osie Mulatu
Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Wachemo University, Hosana, Ethiopia.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36253/jaeid-18286

Published 2025-12-30

Keywords

  • Culinary practices,
  • Ethiopia,
  • ethnobotany,
  • homegardens,
  • indigenous knowledge,
  • spices
    • ...More
    Less

How to Cite

Mulatu, O. (2025). Exploring Indigenous Knowledge and Practices: Cultural and Ecological Dimensions of Spice Diversity in Hadiya and Kambata-Tembaro, Central Ethiopia. Journal of Agriculture and Environment for International Development (JAEID), 119(2), 137–162. https://doi.org/10.36253/jaeid-18286

Copyright (c) 2025 Osie Mulatu

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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Abstract

This study investigates the indigenous knowledge and cultural traditions linked to spice diversity in Hadiya and Kambata-Tembaro Zones, Ethiopia. Using semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations, the research emphasizes the central role of women in preserving and applying this knowledge. A total of 35 spice species mainly herbaceous, with Lamiaceae as the dominant family were identified. The findings underscore the importance of homegardens as hubs for agrobiodiversity and intergenerational knowledge transmission. Spices serve not only culinary purposes but also medicinal and ritual functions, reflecting their deep cultural significance. Community rankings and food preparation practices showed that spice value is rooted in both health benefits and symbolic meaning. The study also exposes gender and economic inequalities, noting women’s limited access to land, resources, and decision-making, despite their critical role. It advocates for gender-equitable and culturally sensitive policies to protect traditional ecological knowledge. Furthermore, it calls for locally driven conservation efforts and interdisciplinary research to ensure sustainable spice cultivation. Overall, the research contributes to global discussions on preserving biocultural heritage and supports empowering indigenous communities especially women as vital stewards of biodiversity and cultural continuity amid environmental and social transformations.

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