Epistemicide of Indigenous Knowledge Systems: A discourse on the initiation rites of passage among the Bemba speaking people of Northern Zambia

Abstract

Epistemicide is a conceptual approach for understanding and analysing ways knowledge systems are silenced or devalued. The Ichisungu and Ifimbusa rites of passage for the Bemba speaking people of Northern Zambia involve inducting girls into young adulthood and marriage adult life respectively. The socio-cultural functions of these rites provide the Bemba community with a sense of cultural identity and continuity. The rites embrace and enhance the unity, cohesiveness, and social fabric of the Bemba community through the impartation of indigenous knowledge and skills to the young generation about marriage as a social institution. In addition, the rites promote traditional norms, values, and customs through the preservation and respect for the Bemba cultural heritage. The two rites of passage are still viable. However, there has been decreased frequency in the performance of these rites sometimes necessitated by lack of natural spaces and other ritual-related items. It has been observed by various stakeholders that the value of intangible cultural heritage and its contribution to national identity is under threat of dilution or extinction and the initiation rites of the Bemba-speaking people of Northern Zambia are a case in point. The Ichisungu and Ifimbusa rituals involve brief seclusion of the initiates in the bush for training and acquisition of societal values and skills. The bush seclusion does not take place in some places because forests have been cleared. These rites provide apprenticeship, mentorship and the transfer of knowledge and leadership skills. Therefore, it is important to safeguard these rituals by mentoring a new generation of young elders with knowledge and skills for the continued enactment of these rituals for posterity.