Lucky Brian Dlamini

The Indigenous Marine Innovations for Sustainable Environments and Economies (IMIsEE) project, funded by the NRF-SAIAB, blends science and art to address coastal challenges. It merges traditional African indigenous knowledge with scientific research to support the sustainable revitalisation of South Africa’s coastline. Science communication plays a central role in achieving the project’s goals and maximising societal impact. It helps translate knowledge into sustainable actions by shaping public perceptions and values around the environment. From the outset, communication in this transdisciplinary initiative has enhanced community participation, bridging the historical gap where indigenous knowledge systems have been marginalised in scientific discourse. IMIsEE follows Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) principles, focusing on collaboration with communities throughout the research process to co-create knowledge and address real-world challenges. This presentation will highlight communication strategies used in the project, including:

• Utilising a variety of digital platforms and technologies,
• Hosting sound postcard exhibitions and digital storytelling sessions,
• Organising imbizo (gatherings) and science engagement activities for high school learners,
• Conducting on-site visits to national research facilities for non-scientists,
• Engaging with media through local and national journalism,
• Contributing to science communication networks and publications.

These approaches show how a science project can effectively integrate African Indigenous Knowledge Systems with participatory methods, connecting science and art through storytelling, music, and cultural practice. Effective communication combats disinformation, supports evidence-based policy, inspires creativity, enhances scientific literacy, and aligns with the 2019 White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation by the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. Although challenges such as language barriers and unequal access to digital tools persist, communication remains essential for linking scientific research with societal needs and fostering sustainability. This presentation will illustrate the vital role of communication in connecting scientific and indigenous knowledge through diverse, inclusive mediums.