Global health
Bio-Heritage Initiative
Integrating Indigenous knowledge with scientific innovation to create equitable healthcare solutions for underserved communities.
What is the Bio-Heritage Initiative?
The Bio-Heritage Initiative, co-founded by Landcent and the University of the Free State, is a pioneering effort to co-create global health solutions by integrating Indigenous knowledge with advanced scientific methodologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). This initiative is grounded in the recognition that Indigenous knowledge is not a relic of the past but a living, dynamic resource that holds immense potential for addressing today's most pressing health challenges.
A compelling example of the success of such integration is the discovery of artemisinin, an active ingredient used in antimalarial drugs derived from Artemisia annua, a plant traditionally used in Chinese medicine. In the 1970s, Chinese scientist Tu Youyou and her team isolated artemisinin, transforming an ancient remedy into a powerful treatment against malaria, especially drug-resistant strains. This achievement, which earned Tu Youyou a Nobel Prize in 2015, highlights the transformative potential of co-creating knowledge across traditional and scientific domains.
Mission:
Integrating Indigenous knowledge with scientific innovation to create equitable healthcare solutions for underserved communities.
Vision:
Indigenous knowledge recognized and integrated into global health, with collaboration across sectors for its protection and benefit.
Dr. Peter Atadja, Landcent’s Chief Scientific Officer
Goals of the Bio-Heritage Initiative
- Documenting and Integrating Indigenous Knowledge
- Advocating for Policy Change
- Fostering Innovation in Global Health
- Building a Collaborative Global Network
- Contributing to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
White Paper
Would you be interested in comprehensive insights and policy recommendations for merging Indigenous knowledge systems with artificial intelligence in healthcare?
Our newly published White Paper outlines actionable steps for governments, healthcare institutions, and global organizations to recognize and empower African Indigenous practices in policymaking. Further, it provides a framework for equitable access, benefit-sharing, and data sovereignty, ensuring that Indigenous communities directly benefit from innovations born from their traditional knowledge.
Become a Partner
Are you interested in becoming a partner and collaborate in accelerating the transformative potential of co-creating knowledge across traditional and scientific domains? Then contact us!
