Indigenous Knowledge (IK) has been observed to be important in supporting development and adoption of technologies globally. Traditional practices like fish traps, mangrove conservation, and tidal knowledge have long sustained marine biodiversity and food security, yet remain under-documented and rarely utilized in modern mariculture developments especially in Kenya. The research aimed to document IK-based mariculture practices, assess contributions to sustainable marine resource management, food security, and explore integration with modern mariculture techniques.
A mixed-method approach, including literature reviews, field surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions with fishers, community leaders, and mariculture experts, was employed using purposive sampling techniques. Four focus group discussions and five key informant interviews were conducted across six sites in Kwale and Kilifi Counties. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically using MAXQDA, and quantitative data were processed using SPSS. Findings indicate that IK-based mariculture technologies enhance sustainable resource management. Demographic insights revealed a dominance of middle-aged practitioners (36-60 years) and limited youth engagement. Qualitative analysis highlighted the reliance on lunar phases, tidal cycles, bird behavior, and indigenous feed production. Challenges on usage of IK was cited as generational knowledge loss, climate change impacts, and weak policy support for usage of indigenous knowledge.
The study recommends formal recognition of IK in mariculture policies (nationally and at local levels), community inclusion in decision-making, and capacity-building programs for knowledge transfer. It emphasizes integrating traditional and modern approaches to enhance food security, promote environmental conservation, and create sustainable economic opportunities for coastal communities.
Keywords: Indigenous Knowledge, Food Security, Mariculture, Marine Resource Management, Policy Integration.