Uhai Wetu

Principles of the Uhai Model 1. Nature is supreme Nature as the basis of life is supreme and all-ecompassing. All elements and beings must therefore recognize and respect it as a sacred endowment to be conserved and sustained.   2. Nature is invaluable  All nature’s elements have intrinsic value, unknown or known. Therefore derivation and utilization of this value for economic, scientific, social, spiritual, aesthetic and other ethical benefits must primarily be aimed at sustaining the livelihoods of all beings on earth. These elements of nature are variously distributed in geographical space, creating a unique biological diversity and habitats whose value must equally be recognized and respected. 3. Nature is a sacred shrine In Africa, nature is a cultural and spiritual shrine as well as a museum of people’s histories. As a sacred shrine, home and a source of livelihood, nature should be treated with utmost reverence. 4. Life is sacred ...

The Uhai Philosophy "In nature lies a level of harmony beyond human cognition, a dimension that is almost metaphysical. It is beyond our sensory capacities. The embodiment of the spirituality of nature is reflected in the ways and traditions of indigenous peoples who have for millennia recognized and virtually worshipped it. Nature is sacred and ought to remain so". The UHAI model argues that a people’s culture must be at the center of development efforts. It recognises that authentic development springs from the collective visions, experiences, decisions and practical actions of the community. It seeks to empower local communities to take charge of their livelihoods by using their indigenous systems, knowledge, wisdom and skills. The UHAI model asks: “Why have many communities in Africa, at regional as well as at national level abandoned or look down upon their indigenous foods, mode of dressing, systems of reward and honor, engineer...