Afrotropical Stingless Bees Illustrate a Persistent Cultural Blind Spot in Research, Policy and Conservation

Abstract

This perspective paper examines the multifaceted cultural ecosystem services (CESs) provided by wild bees with particular attention to the spiritual, medicinal, and traditional knowledge-based dimensions associated with Afrotropical stingless bees. We integrate these insights within a biocultural framework, highlighting their relational values and arguing that the systematic omission of these cultural roles in pollinator research, policy and conservation constitutes a form of epistemic injustice. We also argue that the systematic recognition and documentation of these cultural roles are critical to advancing more inclusive and effective conservation frameworks. Based on a synthesis of field observations, photo-documentation, and literature review, we propose future research and policy directions aimed at embedding these cultural values more comprehensively within biocultural conservation strategies.