标题：Persistence and Loss of Cultural Values of Tiriki Sacred Groves in Hamisi District, Kenya: Implications For Management(RH: Cultural Values of Tiriki Sacred Groves)
摘要：Negligence and desecration observed among Tiriki sacred groves during causal visits
by the authors in January 2007 was associated with their loss of cultural values and protection among
local people. Household interviews were held with 65 randomly selected key informants (51 males, 14
females) from all (6) locations of Hamisi district, Kenya, between March and August 2007. The study
objective was to determine the persistence and loss of traditional cultural values of the groves among
local people plus respective causes for loss of the individual cultural values. Of the 10 traditional
values named, the most dominant was as sources of herbal medicine (100%) and as sites for boys’
circumcision (100%). The least dominant were as sources of food (13.85%) and materials for house
construction( 21.54%). Persistence was highest with their value as sources of herbal medicine (100%)
and lowest as burial sites for community heroes (0.00%) and as sites for special prayers (4.17%).
Break-down in the socio-cultural fabric of the Tiriki community due to the influence of modern religion,
education and government regulations were responsible for loss of cultural values and indigenous
knowledge associated with sacred groves among local people. Sustainable preservation of the sacred
groves requires strategic government intervention with an appropriate institutional framework that
empowers local people to effectively manage and benefit from them. Emphasis is on enterprises that
combine biodiversity conservation with poverty eradication as outlined by the Millennium Development
Goals. Establishment of local, regional and global partnerships towards this end is encouraged.
