Reclaiming the Fire: The Role of Oral Storytelling in Preserving Indigenous Knowledge in the Digital Age
A Study of Keleketla by Makgamatha (1990)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-6697/19786Keywords:
oral storytelling, Indigenous knowledge, digital age, Keleketla, cultural preservationAbstract
This article examines the enduring significance of oral storytelling as a vessel for Indigenous knowledge in an era increasingly dominated by digital technologies. Before the advent of modern civilisation and electronic media, African communities relied on oral traditions, especially evening storytelling sessions led by elders, as powerful tools for transmitting cultural values, moral lessons, and communal identity. Keleketla by Makgamatha (1990), a celebrated Northern Sotho folktale, encapsulates the richness, moral depth, and performative essence of these traditions. Yet, in the digital age, this “fire” of Indigenous storytelling is dimming as children turn to smartphones, global media, and digital entertainment, often at the expense of culturally grounded education. This study investigates the displacement of traditional oral pedagogy within contemporary African households and explores how modern technologies have reshaped parent–child interactions around cultural learning. Guided by a qualitative case study design, the research employed focus group interviews and document analysis. Three key findings emerged: (1) many parents no longer prioritise Indigenous folklore in their children’s upbringing; (2) the widespread provision of digital gadgets promotes gaming and Western content consumption, pushing traditional narratives to the margins; and (3) folktales are increasingly perceived as outdated, leading parents to favour globalised stories and languages over local oral heritage. The study argues that revitalising folktales is essential for identity formation, language preservation, and moral development. It recommends a conscious, collective effort by parents and communities to reclaim the fire of Indigenous storytelling. By reintroducing narratives such as those found in Keleketla, families can preserve cultural knowledge while equipping children with a grounded sense of belonging in the digital age.
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