Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Social Order Among the Bukusu

Rationale of Study – The conceptualisation of the Bukusu Indigenous Knowledge System (IKS) in western Kenya presented in this paper constitutes a coherent body of knowledge used to maintain social order and governance within the community. Going beyond descriptive ethnography, the paper uses a sociocultural knowledge systems approach to analyse the role of moral norms, family governance, initiation rites and elder-dominated authority structures as an integrated Indigenous Knowledge Management System (IKMS). Methodology – Using a case study approach and a qualitative design of semi-structured interviews with elders and knowledge holders in Bumula sub-county, the study investigated the lived experiences and practices of Bukusu knowledge custodians regarding indigenous governance mechanisms.  Findings – The study identified three prevalent governance practices in the area: moral regulation through shared norms and taboos; family-based role socialisation supported by gendered role responsibilities; and initiation-based mentorship as formalised civic education. The results show that Bukusu IKS is a relational, legitimacy-based system of accountability grounded in community obligation rather than in force or law. Implications – The paper concludes that acknowledging such systems as governance-oriented knowledge architectures is useful for decolonising knowledge management theory and can provide culturally anchored innovation for participatory and locally legitimate community governance. Originality – This paper contributes to the decolonisation of knowledge management research by empirically examining a complete non-Western Indigenous Knowledge Management System (IKMS) and demonstrating how Ubuntu philosophy translates into tangible information practices, governance processes and accountability frameworks.