Manasa Sibanda

Abstract

This paper examined ethnoveterinary medicines and practices as cultural heritage in Mushagashe Small Scale Commercial Farming Area in Masvingo province. It applied both quantitative and qualitative approaches to gather data. A Semi-structured questionnaire, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and participant observation were used. SPSS version 16 and Excel software were used to analyse quantitative data while themes were developed for qualitative data. Results show that the knowledge of common diseases, diagnosis and medicines was dominated by males (80%). 50% of the age group above 60 years, was more knowledgeable, followed by the (35 - 60 years) age group (35%), while the least (15%) were between 25-35 years. Those in the 25-35 years category ridiculed and regarded traditional medicines as archaic. The age group 36 - 60 years (62.5%), were reluctant to share their knowledge, while herbalists were secretive as a way of socially patenting it. Only 10% respondents were aware of the toxicity levels while the majority (70%) considered traditional medicines as safe and effective. The study concluded that ethnoveterinary supersede modern veterinary practices in the area, but lacks pharmaceutical validation and documentation. It recommended the aligning of government policy on intellectual property rights and the validation to promote commercialisation. Keywords: Ethnoveterinary medicines, Indigenous knowledge systems, Livelihoods, Traditional medicines, Cultural heritage.

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