Traditional Rain Control Practice Through Indigenous Knowledge System and Technology Among Ikire People of Osun State, Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

This paper aims to trace the history of rain prevention, and examine for documentation, the rituals involved. Traditional rain control in this context is considered as a process involving the making and preventing of rain to modify atmospheric condition of a place using Indigenous Knowledge and Technology (IKT). Rain control ritual is an age-long indigenous knowledge and technology aimed at influencing weather condition. As part of a broadened African society, the art of preventing rainfall is a part of the heritage resources practised by the people of Ikire in Osun State. This ritualistic art which is put to use mainly during socio-cultural gatherings such as festivals, feasts, burials, weddings, and naming ceremonies is called òjòwíwó or òjòmímó in local parlance. The help of rain doctors is sought by people who want to carry out any of these activities during rainy seasons to avoid disruption. Ethnographic method was used to elicit information. Research findings traced the art of rain prevention to Orunmila a god in Yoruba mythology. The rituals involved the use of the details of IKT which is significant in the response of the people to the ever-changing climate