Abstract:
Knowledge plays a great role whenever there is change and growths follow a
complex field and competitive. Agriculture in Ethiopia today is such field.
Encouraging knowledge in this field is a critical point in the transformation of
agricultural sector in Ethiopia. Also managing knowledge within the communities
enhances agricultural development. Therefore the main aim of this study is to develop
knowledge management strategy in managing indigenous knowledge of land use and
agricultural development in western Ethiopia, Ilu Aba Bora zone which crucial to
enhance management of agricultural indigenous knowledge and land use. To end this,
data is collected using focus group discussion, questionnaire, information mapping
from local communities, extension officers and land management officers of Ilu Aba
Bora Zone. The result of the study revealed that local communities had various IK on
Land use and agricultural development. However, this knowledge was acquired
developed, shared and preserved within a weak and at low rate. The major barriers to
indigenous knowledge of land use and agricultural development in the local
communities were Poor knowledge sharing culture, lack of IK records, lack of trust,
no interest to receive IK by younger generation, Oral transfer of IK, Change of life
style and Poor recognition of IK. As a result knowledge management strategy was
developed to enable managing indigenous knowledge in local communities. Further
research directions are recommended to enhance management of indigenous
