Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Environmental Conservation: An Anthropological Study of Environmental Practices in Rwanda

Abstract: Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) represents an important cultural resource for understanding and conserving the environment. In Rwanda, traditional practices concerning soil, water, forests, biodiversity, agriculture, and natural resources have historically been transmitted across generations. However, modernization, urbanization, climate change, and changing lifestyles may contribute to the erosion of such knowledge among younger generations. This study asked: To what extent do ICT students at the Catholic University of Rwanda understand and value Traditional Ecological Knowledge for environmental conservation? It hypothesized that greater recognition of traditional ecological knowledge would be associated with stronger support for its integration into contemporary conservation. The objective was to assess students’ knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward traditional environmental practices. A descriptive mixed-methods design was employed among 39 ICT students, using structured questionnaires and open-ended questions. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings indicated that 89.7% (35/39) considered traditional ecological knowledge important for environmental conservation, while 84.6% (33/39) recognized traditional soil and water conservation practices. Furthermore, 87.2% (34/39) supported integrating TEK into contemporary conservation programmes, and 92.3% (36/39) believed that younger generations should participate in preserving traditional environmental knowledge. The study concludes that TEK remains a valuable cultural resource for sustainable environmental stewardship and should be strengthened through education, community participation, and intergenerational knowledge transmission.