Astronomy and Indigenous Knowledge in the Wolaita Community (Ethiopia): Implications of Education and Agriculture

Abstract

The aim of study was to analyze the astronomy and indigenous knowledge of the Wolaita community regarding the use of astronomical rhythms and elements in agricultural activities and its progressive implications in the education of the Wolaita community. The special focus of the study was five woreda, that are Boloso Sore woreda, Boloso Bonbe, Kindo Didaye woreda, Kindo Koysha woreda, and Damote Gale woreda, which are selected trough random sampling procedure. A total of 25 households were overall sample size for the study. Types of plant seedlings were selected randomly for planting and transplanting. And also the trees to be felled were identified and authenticated. The study used both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including interviews, surveys, experiment and focus group discussions, to gather data from members of the Wolaita community. The data was analyzed qualitatively and examined in parallel with Newton's law of gravity. The study found that the cultural astronomers of Wolaita have been using various astronomical rhythms and elements, such as stars, planets, comets, and the moon, for centuries to guide their agricultural practices, determine the timing of significant activities, and mating intervals. Specifically, the study found that the cultural astronomers of Wolaita observe three specific stars - Toorojiyo, Bakkaliyo, and Gojilliyaa - to determine seasonal cycles, timing of daylight and darkness, and navigation. Additionally, the study found that the cultural astronomers of Wolaita observe moon phases to determine seasonal cycles for agricultural activities and for women to keep track of their menses and fertility cycles. They predict the month's future using the moon. The study verified the effect of ceggennaa during planting and transplanting seedlings, as well as felling trees, in different phases of the moon. The study found that the reasons why plant seedlings dry up and wither, and why felled trees are attacked by weevils and diseases during ceggennaa may be light it reflects from the Sun and its gravitational influence. The study also found that cultural astronomy of Wolaita plays a significant role in shaping the socio-economic, educational, and cultural landscape of the community. However, this valuable indigenous knowledge is on the verge of extinction and cannot be integrated into the education system, except for its use in farmers and sky readers, as well as to celebrate "Gifaataa" or the "New Year" celebration of Wolaita. The study called upon responsible bodies to notice the role of Wolaita cultural astronomy and the threat it has faced, and act in the way they rescue it from disappearance.