Heritage Link Us

Cultural ecosystem services (CES) and biocultural heritage are essential frameworks for understanding the relationship between ecological and cultural landscapes. In Kenya, the Mijikenda Kaya Forests, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represent a unique case where cultural and ecological values are deeply intertwined. These forests are not only biodiversity hotspots but also sacred spaces that serve as centers of spiritual, social, and governance systems for the Mijikenda communities. Despite their significance, existing theoretical and conceptual frameworks often fail to fully integrate the socio-ecological dynamics that sustain them. This study explores an interdisciplinary approach to understanding CES and biocultural heritage in the Kaya Forests, addressing gaps in conservation strategies and policy formulation. The case study highlights the need of a framework that bridges ecological and cultural perspectives. Traditional conservation models tend to emphasize either environmental protection or cultural heritage preservation separately, which limits their effectiveness in complex socio- ecological systems. By integrating elements from the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA) framework, the Biocultural Diversity Framework (BCF), and indigenous knowledge systems, this case study develops a hybrid approach to understanding the multiple roles of the Kaya Forests. The findings reveal that these forests provide a range of CES, including spiritual enrichment, traditional ecological knowledge transmission, identity reinforcement, and community cohesion. However, they are increasingly threatened by socio-economic pressures, climate change, and shifting governance structures. Through an application of the proposed framework, the study finds that CES in the Kaya Forests are deeply embedded in indigenous belief systems and customary practices. The spiritual significance of the forests remains central to Mijikenda religious practices, where rituals and ceremonies serve to reinforce social cohesion and cultural identity. Additionally, traditional ecological knowledge plays a vital role in governing resource use, with elders acting as custodians of environmental wisdom. The forests also serve as a medium for intergenerational knowledge transfer, strengthening community resilience in the face of environmental change. However, the study identifies critical threats, including encroachment, deforestation, urbanization, and the erosion of traditional governance structures. The weakening of indigenous conservation practices due to external pressures highlights the urgent need for adaptive management strategies. The study underscores the importance of integrating indigenous governance systems with formal conservation policies. Recognizing and legitimizing local knowledge in policy frameworks can enhance the sustainability of both cultural and ecological functions of the Kaya Forests. Strengthening legal protections, promoting cultural revitalization efforts, and fostering community-led conservation initiatives are crucial steps toward preserving these landscapes. Furthermore, the study highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration among conservationists, policymakers, and local communities to create more effective and inclusive conservation strategies. By providing a robust theoretical and conceptual framework, this study contributes to the broader discourse on biocultural conservation. It calls for a paradigm shift that acknowledges the interconnectedness of cultural and ecological systems, ensuring that conservation efforts do not undermine the cultural foundations that sustain biodiversity. Ultimately, an integrated approach that foregrounds indigenous perspectives is essential for the long-term preservation of the Mijikenda Kaya Forests and similar heritage landscapes worldwide.