Evaluating African Traditional Knowledge System: A Review of Gacaca Judicial Practice in Post Genocide Rwanda

Abstract Culture and traditions have always remained relevant aspects of human existence and world heritage. They distinguish a group of people from other human societies. Unfortunately, colonisation led to the erosion of several valuable aspects of African cultures and traditions. But in post genocide Rwanda, the need to ensure justice, as a precursor to reconciliation and sustainable peace in the country and the lacuna created by the dearth of western oriented judicial officers encouraged the resuscitation of traditional judicial system called Gacaca. This research discovered that even though Gacaca Court system had its drawbacks, it still succeeded in realizing the objectives of fostering reconciliation and the country which was once an albatross of ethnic cleansing later became a beacon of peace, unity and development in Africa. The research recommended that African leaders should exhume, polish and preserve the valuable aspects of their culture which can facilitate their development.