The National Indigenous Knowledge Management System
The National IK Registration System formerly known as the National Recordal System and the National IK Management System (NIKMAS),
represents an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) platform for the management of Indigenous Knowledge (IK) as governed
by the Protection, Promotion, Development and Management of Indigenous Knowledge Act No 6 of 2019. The IK Registration System is the
technology platform that is connected to IKS Documentation Centres that support communities to record their indigenous knowledge.
The IK information accessed and published through the national IK Registration System has ownership vested in communities.
Accessing these through the IK Registration System requires permission and authorisation. Click here for more information
Future systems that will be available via the NIKSO Portal include the IK Register of Designations.
Future systems that will be available via the NIKSO Portal include the IK Register of Designations.
Highlights
Summary
*IKSDC - Indigenous Knowledge Systems Documentation Centre
Full Details
NIKMAS Fast Facts
Operations provided by NIKMAS are as follows:
Explore indigenous knowledge (IK)
- African Traditional Medicine
- Food Security
Pharmacopoeia
The Pharmacopoeia is a prior art database which holds information on the use, quality, efficacy and safety of traditional African medicines in South Africa.
The database draws on published resources on plants, its botanical distribution and its uses for medicinal purposes,
which are digitised to provide information, cross-referencing and research outputs for use by researchers, community members,
traditional healers and a wide range of global users. This database is not intended for medical or health advice and may not be used as a substitute for professional consultation from experts. Click here for more information

Featured Plant
Embelia ruminata (E.Mey. ex A.DC.) Mez.
Embelia ruminata is a climbing shrub or small tree which may reach up to five metres high. The leaves are dark green and shiny, dotted liberally with translucent glands. Flowers are small, inconspicuous and greenish in colour. Flowers occur in short elongated clusters and are followedby small round pea-sized capsules. This plant is distinguished from a scrambling fig by the lack of an ostiole on the lower end of the fruit.