Indigenous Weather Forecast Systems: A Case Study of Weather Forecast Indicators for Chapo Village, Ward 17, in Matopo Zimbabwe

Abstract

This research documents the indigenous weather forecast indicators used at Chapo Village, Ward 17, in Matobo District, Zimbabwe. Matobo District is in natural region IV which receives between 450-650mm per year and experiences frequent droughts. The objectives of this research were to identify and document the indigenous indicators used in this community, offer the meanings the villagers’ attach to each indicator and establish their perception of the indigenous weather forecast indicators.  The study adopted a qualitative approach. Focus group discussions and interviews were held to collect data in the village. The data was analysed using a thematic approach and this was underpinned by the afrocentric theory. The results showed that villagers used trees, birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles and insects to predict the weather patterns. Of these indicators, trees had the largest number of species used in weather forecasting. The religious worldview of the locals also formed part of the intricate weather forecast systems used in the area. The people of Chapo Village value and rely on the indigenous weather forecast indicators which they derive from their environment. The study concludes that these indigenous weather forecasting methods are for form of intangible cultural heritage (ICH). There is therefore need to produce nomination files which will facilitate their inscription on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.