Abstract:
Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) is a priceless indigenous knowledge treasure globally, and its
full use has cultural and socioeconomic development value as espoused in Sustainable Development
Goals 4, 5, 8, 11 and 16. ICH is manifested through oral traditions, expressions and language,
performing arts, social practices, cultural spaces, rituals and festive events, knowledge and practices
about nature and traditional craftsmanship. Intangible cultural heritage is fragile and requires
urgent safeguarding, yet its transmission remains neglected. The paper reviewed Isukuti artefacts
and rituals as intangible cultural heritage in the Isukha Community, Kakamega, to promote and
facilitate their use to attain SDGs 4, 5, 8, 11 and 16. The objectives were to identify the SDGs
linked to Isukuti artefacts and rituals, establish enactments of Isukuti rituals and artefacts, and
ascertain the challenges of Isukuti artefacts and rituals as intangible cultural heritage among the
Isukha community. Theoretical triangulation of symbolism and semiotics, functionalist perspective
and cultural evolution approaches were employed. The methodology adopted was a descriptive
qualitative approach and content analysis. It focused on Isukuti artefacts and rituals by observing
and interviewing knowledge holders and practitioners. For truth value in qualitative research findings,
crystallisation, authenticity and integrity were maximised. Findings show that Isukuti artefacts and
ritual endangerment and fragility can be mitigated. The heritage has contributing potential to the
achievement of SDGs such as cultural preservation (SDG 11), promotion of gender equality
(SDG 5), economic growth through tourism (SDG 8), education and awareness (SDG 4), and
peace, justice and vital institutions (SDG 16).
