Indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) encompass the accumulated and generated knowledge, wisdom, practices, and beliefs of various indigenous (local) people worldwide. Rooted in centuries of lived experience of know-how and deep connection of local communities to the land this enables them to have a stable livelihood over time.

IKS offer holistic perspectives on agriculture, food preparation, health care, education and training, environmental conservation, healing and spiritual activities passed down orally through generations for sustainable living... IKS emphasise harmony with nature, community cohesion, and respect for ancestral wisdom. Despite facing threats from globalisation and modernisation, efforts to preserve and integrate IKS into contemporary society are crucial and as well as prioritising research and development of IK based innovations for herbal and natural product manufacturing and commercialisation purposes.

TIA supports Indigenous Knowledge based innovations to harness innovations with a focus on African traditional medicines, cannabis & hemp, cosmeceuticals (IK-based), ethnoveterinary, health infusions and nutraceuticals to serve as a source for technology transfer and commercialisation opportunities. TIA further supports technology advances in IK-based ethnoveterinary, natural products, cannabis and hemp.

TIA’s support towards IKS innovations further contributes to the South African government’s initiative on the commercialisation of South Africa’s biodiversity through sustainable herbal product manufacturing Southern African region and global benefit. IK based innovations, owing to South Africa’s rich biodiversity, serve as a conduit for appreciated developments in various fields such as primary healthcare, public health and biotrade, all through sustainable development ecology.