International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2026

Theme: Preserving Indigenous Knowledge, Practising Epistemic Justice: Leaving No One Behind

Date: 21 August 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Venue: National Museum of Cameroon, Yaoundé

About the Event

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is an opportunity to recognise Indigenous peoples, their cultures, knowledge systems and contributions to society. The 2026 United Nations theme, “Honouring Indigenous Midwives: Safeguarding Life and Well-being,” draws attention to the role of Indigenous midwives in safeguarding the health and well-being of their communities and invites reflection on the contribution of Indigenous knowledge to health.

In Cameroon, Indigenous knowledge is engaged across research, public policy, healthcare, education, cultural preservation and community development. This creates opportunities for greater dialogue, mutual learning and collaboration among institutions and communities working in these areas.

To mark the 2026 commemoration, eBASE Africa, in partnership with the National Museum of Cameroon, will convene a high-level event under the theme “Preserving Indigenous Knowledge, Practising Epistemic Justice: Leaving No One Behind.” The event will explore the contribution of Indigenous knowledge to health and well-being while creating space for exchange among institutions working with Indigenous communities across Cameroon.

Objectives

The event seeks to:

• Honour Indigenous knowledge holders, including Indigenous midwives and traditional birth attendants.
• Facilitate dialogue on the contribution of Indigenous knowledge to health and well-being.
• Translate scientific data and research findings into stories that are culturally relevant to communities and stakeholders.
• Provide an opportunity for organisations and institutions to share experiences of engaging with Indigenous knowledge in Cameroon.
• Strengthen connections among institutions and organisations working with Indigenous communities.

Expected Outcomes

The event is expected to:

• Promote dialogue among Indigenous knowledge holders, policymakers, researchers, practitioners and development partners.
• Increase the visibility of initiatives related to Indigenous knowledge in Cameroon.
• Strengthen collaboration among institutions working with Indigenous communities.
• Improve understanding of the contribution of Indigenous knowledge to health and well-being.
• Lay the foundation for continued exchange and collaboration on Indigenous knowledge beyond the commemoration.

Who Can Attend?

The event is opened to:

• Indigenous community leaders
• Traditional birth attendants and midwives
• Civil society representatives
• Government officials
• Researchers and scholars
• Cultural promoters

Register here.