Abstract:
The study analyzed mechanisms for upscaling indigenous knowledge (IK) of forest products in Anambra State. Interview schedule was administered to 80 respondents to collect information for the study. The findings revealed that all (100%) of the respondents know certain forest trees/plants that could be used for medicinal purposes. The respondents also had IK of forest protection measures like policing of the products by organizations such as age grades, youth associations, task forces etc. (92.6%). The present mechanisms [e.g. oral based records (M=0.99) and preservation of fresh fruits (M=0.75)] were perceived by respondents as not effective. Some serious constraints to the mechanisms for upscaling IK of forest products were lack of government policy/ capital (M=2.74) and decline in size of forests (M = 2.66). The study concluded that local people had IK of certain forest trees/plants which could be used for medicinal and other purposes like identification, sacred/worship, local classification etc.
