Indigenous evaluation blog
Bhuban B Bajracharya, Chairman, Nepal Evaluation SocietyWhen the Academic Symposium on M&E Education in Colombo, Sri Lanka, concluded on December 04, 2024, some of the participants from the EvalIndigenous team travelled to visit the Dambana Indigenous Village. On the way, we passed through Kandy and paid a visit to the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth). We then reached the Mapakada village of Mahiyangana in the evening of December 05, 2024. The following day, on 6 December, we went to the Dambana Indigenous Village, which is located within a protected forest. There, the we had a meeting with Uru Warige Wannila Aththo, Indigenous Community Leader. About the Community The Dambana indigenous community, also known as the Vedda community, is one of the oldest indigenous groups in Sri Lanka. They have a rich history and unique traditions, but they face several challenges today. Here are some of the salient features of their livelihoods and cultural identity: Population Size and Its Trend
Cultural Identity
Current Status The Vedda people of Dambana are in the process of modernization, which has led to a loss of their traditional identity. Many have integrated into neighboring Sinhala or Tamil communities. The younger generation is particularly influenced by modern media and technology, leading to a shift away from traditional practices. The community has access to media, including a community radio station called Dambana Radio, although it is not fully operational and does not fully meet their needs. Government Initiatives Efforts have been made by both the Sri Lankan government and non-governmental organizations to support the preservation of Vedda culture and improve the livelihoods of community members. These efforts include land rights initiatives, cultural education programs, and sustainable development projects. However, the community still faces significant challenges, including loss of traditional lands and socioeconomic marginalization. The Vedda leaders have sometimes rejected government sponsorship for cultural events, preferring that funds be used for community development projects and education. The government has expressed willingness to reallocate funds for these purposes, but the implementation of such initiatives has been inconsistent. The Vedda community continues to struggle with maintaining their cultural identity while adapting to modern influences. The preservation of their language, traditions, and way of life remains a critical concern for both the community and those working to support them. The regulations of the Ministry of Environment and Wildlife in Sri Lanka, while aimed at conservation, have posed significant challenges to the traditional livelihoods of the Dambana indigenous community. Here are some key ways these regulations impact them:
Impact on Cultural Identity The enforcement of these regulations can erode the cultural identity of the Vedda people. As they are forced to abandon traditional practices, there is a risk of losing their unique cultural heritage and knowledge passed down through generations. While the intention behind these regulations is to protect the environment and wildlife, it is crucial to find a balance that also respects and preserves the rights and traditions of indigenous communities like the Vedda. Efforts to involve these communities in conservation planning and decision-making can help create more sustainable and inclusive solutions. Also see: Part 2. Visiting the community Blog by John Njovu, about the Academic Symposium and visiting the community Indigenous evaluation advice
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