Community Radio as a Platform for the Sharing and Preservation of Indigenous Knowledge in Rural Plumtree, Zimbabwe

Rationale of Study – Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) are vital to cultural identity, livelihoods, and intergenerational learning in rural African communities but remain vulnerable. Community radio is a key platform for sharing and preserving IKS. However, limited research exists on how cultural experts use community radio stations to sustain IKS in rural Zimbabwe. This study investigates how cultural experts use Radio BuKalanga to share and preserve IKS in Plumtree, Zimbabwe. Methodology – The study employed a qualitative case study design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight cultural experts from the Bulilima and Mangwe communal areas. Participants were selected using snowball sampling. Data were analysed thematically, guided by the study’s objectives. Findings – Findings indicate that cultural experts disseminate diverse forms of IKS through community radio, including language, oral heritage, and artisanal skills. Radio BuKalanga has strengthened language visibility, cultural pride, and community. Key challenges include technological and infrastructure limitations, youth disinterest, language erosion, and ethical concerns surrounding sacred knowledge. Positive initiatives, including local-language education, cultural festivals, and institutional collaborations, support ongoing preservation efforts. Implications – The study demonstrates that community radio serves as a crucial knowledge infrastructure for preserving indigenous heritage. Strengthening participatory programming, youth engagement, digital integration, and institutional support can enhance the sustainability of IKS transmission. Originality – This study provides original empirical insights into the role of cultural experts in preserving IKS through community radio in Zimbabwe, extending participatory communication scholarship by foregrounding local knowledge custodianship in rural media practice.