SUMMARY

Through many generations and over many years indigenous African people have lived in close relationship

with their natural environment.They have, based on a number of historical, social and ecological factors, and

through experimentation, critical observation as well as innovation evolved a holistic, traditional knowledge of the

vast biological diversity around them. In the past various rules and regulations mainly in the form of taboos based on religion

and the traditional value systems protected biodiversity in these communities. Respect for these rules and regulations have

waned considerably compared to the past, nevertheless there is still an appreciable level of regard for them.

It is recommended that formal conservation interventions take advantage of such already-existing informal situations to ensure

maximum local participation and success.