Impact of Cyclones and Extreme Floods on Traditional Medicines and Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge systems, including traditional medicines, are an important part of the livelihood of many communities around the globe. In sub-Saharan Africa, the use of modern medicines has never fully replaced the indigenous system, and it is estimated that a great majority of the population relies on traditional medicine not only as its primary healthcare option but also as a significant source of income. Despite their wealth of knowledge and practices, indigenous cultures are not exempt from the threat of environmental change. Over the past 10 years, sub-Saharan Africa has experienced more frequent and extreme climate events such as Cyclone Idai and Cyclone Kenneth. There is evidence to show that these extreme weather events are causing noticeable effects not just on human and animal life but also on the life cycles and distribution of plant species, including medicinal plants. This chapter outlines the role of traditional medicines and indigenous/traditional medicinal knowledge systems in public healthcare in Chimanimani, especially during the 2019 Cyclone Idai event, and the impact that the cyclone-induced floods and landslides had on the availability of medicinal plants. Data was collected from in-depth interviews with medicinal practitioners and a questionnaire-based survey of local community members. The study found that, as a result of the tropical cyclone, medicinal plant species mainly along riverine areas were lost, and also some of the traditional medical practitioners were deceased. The effect of the loss of vital medicinal species cannot be overstated as it is likely to have major consequences on the livelihoods of large numbers of vulnerable people who rely on traditional medicines for their primary healthcare needs. The protection of medicinal plant sites is therefore important for the sustenance of traditional medicinal practice.