Spirituality in traditional water knowledge systems as a driver and barrier to aquatic ecosystem conservation in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Traditional water knowledge (TWK) compounds indigenous people’s profound and inherent understanding, comprehension, and interpretation of natural processes with their ecological dependence on hydrological cycles and spiritual and religious cultural connections. TWK simultaneously coexists and conflicts with Western methods of water management in African landscapes. The objectives of this systematic literature review were to 1) synthesise the role of spirituality in TWK elements comprising spatial-based landscape knowledge, water use and management, and water values i) as drivers and ii) barriers to aquatic ecosystem conservation in rural and urban landscapes and 2) identify salient gaps for its integration in strengthening aquatic biodiversity, climate adaptation, resilience, and sanitation initiatives in Zimbabwe. A Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews (SPAR-4-SLR) literature review protocol and a Theories, Concepts, Characteristics; Methodology (TCCM) framework were adopted. TWK exhibits subtle variations related to the local geospatial cultural intricate perspectives on the sacredness of water sites. Informal traditional water knowledge networks predict wildlife and water system and rainfall dynamics akin to academic projections but pose unique governance and policy interventions. Gaps exist in studies on the origin of the evolution of mythical water spirits, spiritualism, moneyism, natural medicinal healing attributes, and the lure of water ecosystems as an epistemological aspect of TWK. Geospatial mapping and documentation of the localised contextual conservation astuteness of sacred water sites is a baseline and valid TWK for local conservation policy initiatives. Complementary integration of TWK and contemporary scientific methods will enhance national water policies and water conservation strategies in Zimbabwe.