Science of the elders

Abstract

This program aims to improve the capacity of African countries to adapt to climate change in ways that benefit the most vulnerable. Famous for their rainmaking skills, Kenya’s Nganyi clan are working with scientists to forecast the weather. One of the key objectives in working with the Nganyi is to make weather information available and accessible at the local level. The article reports on a team of scientists/researchers who view the elders as fellow scientists. The Nganyi gather information by keeping a close eye on various natural “shrines.” At these sacred sites where it is forbidden to cut trees, they monitor the patterns of climate-sensitive plants and animals.