Fostering peer to peer exchange of Indigenous and local knowledge (ILK): ILK Move

ILK_Move is defined by three key aspects: firstly, it represents a group movement/network aimed at strengthening Indigenous and local knowledge within NEA assessments; secondly, it emphasizes the dynamic and adaptable nature of Indigenous and local knowledge, dispelling the notion of it being static or traditional; and thirdly, it symbolizes the collaborative journey of Tranche III ILK teams in sailing in the ocean of NEA together, sharing and learning together as they navigate the waters of the NEA.

The ILK_Move was established during the 2023 National Ecosystem Assessment (NEA) Initiative Global Workshop, held in Cambridge, United Kingdom, from 27 November to 1 December 2023 with the goal of facilitating peer-to-peer Indigenous and local knowledge exchange and coordinate country-driven global NEA ILK activities. This community is led by the Indigenous and local knowledge focal points from NEA Tranche III countries: Dr Nelson Tselaesele from the Botswana NEA, Alfredo Morillo and Aleyda Capella from the Dominican Republic NEA, Alice Kammwamba from the Malawi NEA, and Dr. Narumon Arunotai from the Thailand NEA.

For the year 2024, Alice Kammwamba has been designated as the captain, steering the ILK_Move towards its goals through her visionary and enthusiastic leadership.

To ensure continuous engagement and progress, the ILK_Move community holds monthly meetings. These gatherings are key for sharing Indigenous and local knowledge updates, discussing challenges, and brainstorming solutions. The regular interaction fosters a sense of unity and purpose, enabling members to stay connected and collaboratively advance their work on weaving Indigenous and local wisdom in their NEAs.

A significant highlight of the ILK_Move's activities in 2024 will be their involvement in the NEA Global Workshop that will take place in Cambridge, United Kingdom, from 17 to 20 September. This event will serve as a platform for showcasing the community's achievements, exchanging knowledge with broader country team members, and strengthening the outreach of the NEA ILK work from Tranche III countries. The workshop will also offer the ILK_Move an opportunity for peer-to-peer ILK capacity enhancement, including through exchange of lessons learned. Also, the team is planning to present future collaborative communication goals, such as the development of an ILK Booklet. This booklet will feature ILK case studies, lessons learned, and key recommendations from the NEAs in Botswana, the Dominican Republic, Malawi, and Thailand.