Concept paper: Traditional Ecological Knowledge of the Bamasaaba/Bagisu People in Uganda.
MT Elgon Traditional Ecological Knowledge as a community based organization found in Mbale Eastern Uganda. It is working on Environmental Conservation through the application of the traditional Ecological Knowledge.

Located on the slopes of Mt. Elgon, the Bamasaaba/Bagisu people have lived with nature for centuries. Residing at the highest point on these ranges going as high as 8000ft while the low ones go as low as 4000ft above sea level (Khamalwa, 2004: 19). Interwoven with the hills, caves and gorges are rivers like Manafwa, Sorokho and Lwakhakaha, with countless tributaries, this community of around 4 million people faces significant environmental challenges, including landslides, flash floods, mudslides, and riverbank bursts, which claim approximately 50 lives annually.

The Bamasaaba/Bagisu people have a rich cultural heritage, including traditional male circumcision, known as Imbalu, which holds great spiritual and cultural significance. Beyond this practice, they have developed traditional ecological knowledge that has been passed down through generations.

One notable example of their traditional ecological knowledge is the conservation of water springs and catchment areas, locally known as "Mwitosi," "Mwigombe," or "Mwishengelo," which translates to "the ever-wet places." These areas have been protected and conserved since the 17th century, demonstrating the community's deep understanding of the importance of preserving natural resources.

The conserved water springs contribute significantly to the flow of important rivers.
Recent efforts have focused on mapping and characterizing traditionally conserved water springs and catchments.

- 12 sites have been mapped and characterized.
- Conservation enforcement has been implemented to protect these areas

However, more effort is needed to map the remaining 500 sites, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration between the community, conservation organizations, and government agencies, to promote comprehensive and Data - approaches to identify, understand, and mitigate the traditional Ecological Knowledge impacts.

The long-standing conservation of water springs and catchment areas demonstrates the effectiveness of community-led conservation initiatives.

By recognizing and supporting indigenous peoples' rights and knowledge, we can promote more effective and sustainable conservation practices, ultimately contributing to the achievement of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework's goals.

For Details contact; Namisano Julius
Director, Mt Elgon Traditional Ecological Knowledge.
Email; mtelgontek.center@gmail.com
Mobile phone. 0774930602, 0701335333