Ancestral Knowledge and River Systems: Pathways to Sustainability, Peace, and Community Resilience

Abstract

This study offers a unique perspective on the role of ancestral knowledge in sustainable river management and community resilience. Specifically, this study draws on (1) a systematic literature review using the PRISMA methodology and (2) a qualitative analysis of community surveys conducted with 39 women in Zambrano, Colombia, to examine the impact of ancestral knowledge on sustainability, peace promotion, and community development. The findings highlight that women’s traditional water management practices significantly contribute to environmental sustainability, conflict resolution, and social cohesion. Women play a central role in transmitting and applying ancestral water knowledge, yet they remain marginalized in decision-making processes, often facing barriers to participation in governance structures. Finally, these findings proposed strategies for integrating ancestral knowledge into sustainable resource management policies. This study underscores the urgent need for legal recognition, intercultural dialogue, gender-inclusive governance, and educational programs to ensure the transmission and adaptation of these practices in contemporary contexts. Integrating ancestral knowledge into water management policies is essential for strengthening gender equity, community resilience, and fostering governance models that harmoniously combine traditional and scientific approaches.

1. Introduction

Since ancient times, water resources have been fundamental for domestic use and agriculture. Approximately 20% of the world’s water supply irrigates arable land, producing around 40% of the global food supply and 60% of cereals, underlining its direct relationship with the global challenges of the sixth Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 6), aimed at sustainable water and sanitation management [1]. Additionally, 80% of this natural resource is located on the surface. The remainder is stored underground or as vapor in the atmosphere. Increasing pressures on river systems in recent years have significantly limited their availability. This highlights the need for careful water management to meet human demands, protect ecosystems, and mitigate the effects of climate change [2,3]. Applying ancestral techniques for water collection and distribution in agriculture and other components is beneficial, especially in regions where water resources are scarce [3,4]. In this context, ancestral knowledge emerges as a key yet often overlooked source of strategies for sustainable water governance, particularly in regions where water scarcity intersects with cultural heritage and traditional practices.

Integrating ancestral knowledge into river system management represents a critical and often underestimated dimension of sustainable natural resource governance [1]. As hydrological entities, river systems possess profound cultural, economic, social, and spiritual significance for the communities that have inhabited their banks for generations [5]. These systems reflect a symbiotic relationship between people and their environment, manifested in traditional practices and beliefs that have sustained ecosystems and human livelihoods [1,6]. These ancestral practices offer sustainable tools for managing water and aquatic systems and mechanisms to promote social cohesion and resilience in the face of increasing environmental, social, economic, cultural, and socio-ecological pressures [5,7,8]. Practices derived from traditional, ancestral, and cultural knowledge of rivers face challenges in contemporary contexts. These include conflicts over the allocation of resources, intensified by competing demands for water for agriculture, mining, and urban development [9]. In turn, social and environmental implications derive from the indiscriminate use of natural resources, generating differences, rivalries, confrontations, framed interests, and collective impacts [10]. The disconnect between ancestral knowledge systems and modern policy frameworks exacerbates the marginalization of these practices. However, Román-Chaverra et al. [1] and Young et al. [8] have shown that excluding this knowledge in resource planning and management reduces local resilience and compromises biodiversity conservation. Furthermore, the adverse impacts of climate change, including increased flooding and drought, threaten the delicate balance these practices seek to maintain [11].

Evidence of increasing ecosystem degradation is driven by human activities (anthropogenic processes) and the effects of armed conflict, forced displacement, gender violence, migration, and other related factors [10]. These dynamics significantly impact the environment, especially water resources, accelerating pollution processes, exacerbating climate change, and multiplying the associated risks [12]. The economic activities that sustain modern societies have altered the global climate in this era, aptly called the Anthropocene. In this scenario, vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, indigenous peoples, and peasant and Afro-descendant communities, disproportionately face these adverse effects. Le Mason [13] highlight that natural disasters can exacerbate discrimination against women, increasing their vulnerability in risk situations.

Economic and environmental factors act as determinants of sustainability. Poverty and economic dependence limit the capacity of riverside communities to cope with catastrophes such as floods, landslides, wars, and military confrontations. Insecurity and lack of access to essential services further aggravate their situation. In conflict or economic crisis contexts, social tensions increase, triggering pollution as an expression of frustration and discontent [10,14]. Comprehensively addressing these problems is essential by designing effective prevention strategies that promote sustainability, peace, and community development, while fostering the social appropriation of knowledge as a pillar for socio-environmental transformation.

Ancestral knowledge provides essential contributions to address the challenges above, especially in sustainable water management, peacebuilding, and community development, enabling capacity building through group organization and promoting collaboration, equality, justice, and respect based on collective participation. Traditional water management practices emphasize water resources, often through methods adapted to local ecological contexts [1,15]. Furthermore, worldviews rooted in many ancestral practices promote respect for rivers as living entities, fostering harmonious coexistence and reducing resource conflicts [6]. This comprehensive approach, which combines practical and cultural aspects, coincides with other authors’ research, highlighting how traditional ecological knowledge reinforces biodiversity conservation and community resilience [9,16].

Despite significant advances in recognizing the value of ancestral knowledge, notable gaps persist in its integration within modern governance and development paradigms. For this reason, it is a priority to identify the immediate impact on environmental scenarios, derived from conflicts and mediated by struggles for territory, power, and economic goods, from a critical intervention in the dynamics of relationships between individuals [17]. Research such as that of Sinthumule [6] and Young et al. [8] have highlighted these traditional practices’ ecological and cultural value. However, empirical evidence directly linking this knowledge with concrete results in peacebuilding and community development in riverine contexts remains scarce. This knowledge gap highlights the need to conduct research demonstrating the relevance of ancestral wisdom and its viability and effectiveness in addressing contemporary challenges.

In 2016, the Colombian government signed a historic peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), bringing an official end to over five decades of internal armed conflict. The agreement included provisions for rural reform, political participation, and ex-combatants’ reintegration, specifically emphasizing territorial equity and community participation. In riverine territories, the peace process has opened new opportunities for dialogue. Still, it has also exposed structural challenges such as institutional fragmentation, land disputes, and the persistence of violence linked to resource extraction and weak state presence. This post-conflict context is essential for understanding how ancestral knowledge about sustainability and peacebuilding efforts is perceived and mobilized.

Based on the above, the objectives of this research are (i) to examine and document ancestral knowledge associated with rivers, (ii) to analyze the impact of ancestral knowledge on promoting peace and community development, and (iii) to propose strategies for the integration of ancestral knowledge into sustainable water resource management policies. This study combines a systematic literature review using the PRISMA methodology and qualitative data from a survey of 39 women in Zambrano (Colombia). While this study does not claim to establish causal relationships, it seeks to explore how community members, particularly women, perceive the contribution of ancestral knowledge to social cohesion, conflict resolution, and environmental sustainability. This approach provides an exploratory foundation for future in-depth research to assess concrete impacts on peacebuilding and development in riverine territories. By linking traditional and modern methods, this research aims to generate knowledge for the transition towards more equitable and resilient water governance systems [1,5,9].

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Literature Search

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology, recognized for its systematic, transparent, and reproducible approach to reviewing the scientific literature [18], was used to search for information. This methodology allowed us to organize the search, selection, evaluation, and synthesis stages for relevant studies on ancestral knowledge associated with rivers in a structured way. In the identification stage, a comprehensive search strategy was designed using relevant keywords such as “Ancestral Knowledge”, “Traditional Knowledge”, “Water Management”, and “Rivers” combined with Boolean operators (AND, OR). The search was performed in Scopus (https://www.scopus.com) and Web of Science (https://www.webofscience.com) covering 2000 and 2024.

The selection stage involved an initial review of the titles and abstracts of the studies obtained. In this phase, duplicates were eliminated, and documents that did not meet the study’s objectives were discarded. The inclusion criteria focused on identifying research that addressed the relationship between ancestral knowledge and rivers, highlighting its relevance in water resource management [1]. During the eligibility stage, an exhaustive review of the full texts of the previously selected studies was carried out. Each article was evaluated in terms of its methodological quality and thematic relevance, following the methodology proposed by Kitchenham et al. [19]. This process enabled identifying research that explored ancestral practices and discussed their impact on sustainable water resource management [6,7]. Finally, data extraction and analyses were carried out using a predefined template to systematize the information from the selected studies. This template included details such as the objectives of each investigation, the used methods, and the main findings related to ancestral knowledge and its integration with water resource management, especially in rivers.

2.2. Collection and Analysis of Community Data on Ancestral Knowledge and River Systems

A structured survey was designed and applied to understand the community’s perception and knowledge about river systems and their relationship with ancestral knowledge. The survey was conducted with 39 women from the Zambrano (Colombia) municipality. The sample was selected using a purposive strategy to ensure representation across age groups and community roles. Although this study does not aim for statistical generalization, the responses revealed consistent thematic patterns across participants, supporting the validity of the findings within the context of Zambrano. As the instrument was a structured survey rather than in-depth interviews, the notion of data saturation does not strictly apply. Instead, the focus was on identifying converging narratives and shared perceptions. This data collection tool allowed for assessing traditional practices associated with water management, perceptions of environmental impact, and community resilience to socio-environmental changes. The survey included closed and open-ended questions, covering cultural, ecological, and socio-economic dimensions, aligned with previous approaches on the relationship between traditional knowledge and sustainability [1,6]. Participating women were intentionally selected to ensure representation across diverse age groups and community roles. Before the survey, informed consent was obtained from each participant to guarantee voluntary participation, confidentiality, and ethical handling of the collected information, following best practices in research with vulnerable communities [10,14]. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative techniques, facilitating the identification of key patterns and trends in the interaction between ancestral knowledge and the sustainable management of river systems [7,8].

Open-ended responses were analyzed using inductive thematic coding, guided by recurrence, relevance to the research questions, and conceptual alignment with the prior literature. Two researchers conducted the coding independently and reconciled discrepancies through discussion to ensure analytical consistency. While the sample does not aim to represent the entire population of Zambrano statistically, it was designed to capture diverse perspectives from women across different generational and social roles, offering exploratory insights into local perceptions and practices.

2.3. Analyzing the Impact on Peace Promotion and Community Development

A qualitative approach was also used to analyze the impact of ancestral knowledge in promoting peace and community development based on the analysis of case studies and the review of the specialized literature. This approach made it possible to identify how ancestral practices related to rivers have contributed to social cohesion, conflict resolution, and the strengthening of community networks in different contexts. Relevant case studies, including indigenous and rural communities from Latin America and other regions, were selected, emphasizing the interaction between ancestral knowledge and contemporary social dynamics [1,6]. Additionally, key indicators were identified to measure the impact of ancestral expertise on peaceful resolution, such as reducing conflicts over water use, participation in decision-making, and promoting values such as social justice and equity [7,15].

2.4. Proposing Strategies for Integration into Sustainable Resource Management Policies

A critical analysis of existing public policies and proposals for integrating ancestral knowledge into natural resource governance frameworks was conducted to generate proposals. This analysis was carried out in three stages: (i) the identification of relevant policies and regulatory frameworks at local, national, and international levels, (ii) the evaluation of opportunities and barriers for the incorporation of traditional practices, and (iii) the design of proposals that promote convergence between ancestral knowledge and modern sustainability approaches [8,9]. To assess the viability of these proposals, regulatory documents, development plans, and international treaties on water resource management and biodiversity were consulted. This approach made it possible to identify areas where ancestral knowledge has been successfully integrated and the existing gaps in contexts where this knowledge has not yet been considered. In addition, a comparative analysis was carried out between different sustainable governance models that incorporate ancestral knowledge [1,5].

3. Results

3.1. Systematic Literature Review: PRISMA Analysis

The PRISMA methodology was applied during the systematic review to ensure a structured and rigorous analysis of ancestral knowledge and river systems studies. Forty-three references were identified in the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. After eliminating three duplicate records, the screening phase was carried out, where 40 studies were evaluated. The review of titles and abstracts led to excluding two articles that did not align with the research objectives. Subsequently, 38 articles were reviewed, and 5 were excluded due to a lack of relevance in sustainability, water management, and community resilience. Finally, 35 studies were included in the final synthesis, which provides a broad overview of the interaction between traditional knowledge and water management in riverside communities (Figure 1).

The analysis of the selected articles reveals that interest in research on ancestral knowledge and its relationship with river systems has been increasing in recent years. The highest number of publications was recorded in 2021 (10 articles), followed by 2023 and 2024 (7 articles each), suggesting a growing recognition of the importance of these topics in the academic literature. Studies such as those by Sinthumule [6] and Román-Chaverra et al. [1] have addressed the role of traditional ecological knowledge in biodiversity conservation and the sustainability of water management, highlighting its value as an alternative to conventional environmental management approaches.

Regarding the methodologies used in the reviewed studies, a predominance of qualitative and ethnographic approaches was observed, emphasizing data collection through interviews, case studies, participant observation, and documentary review. Some studies, such as that of Jintapitak et al. [20], combined anthropological and ecological methods to understand how traditional communities have managed water resources over time. Other articles, such as that of Tirivangasi and Nyahunda [21], analyzed the intersection between religion, cultural practices, and environmental conservation in water management contexts. This qualitative approach allows us to capture the depth of ancestral knowledge and its relationship with sustainability. It also highlights the lack of studies with quantitative methods and predictive models, which could strengthen the scientific validation of this knowledge.

The reviewed articles cover various dimensions of water management and sustainability in riverside communities. Three main approaches were identified: (i) studies that document and analyze ancestral water management practices [1,15]; (ii) research that explores the integration of this knowledge into contemporary water management models [7]; and (iii) studies that examine the social and cultural impact of ancestral knowledge on community resilience and peacebuilding [8]. This distribution demonstrates the multidisciplinary relationship between ancestral knowledge and water sustainability, where ecology, anthropology, sociology, and environmental management converge.

Despite the growing recognition of this knowledge, the studies reviewed show significant gaps in integrating ancestral knowledge into public policies and water governance models. Research such as that of Escobar [9] has demonstrated that the exclusion of these knowledge systems from political frameworks has deepened the marginalization of indigenous and Afro-descendant communities, limiting their ability to influence decision-making regarding water. Similarly, Martínez-Alier [11] argues that the lack of knowledge of this knowledge in natural resource planning has increased socio-environmental conflicts in Latin America. These findings emphasize the need to move towards more inclusive and collaborative management approaches, where traditional knowledge is not seen as obsolete but as a key tool for facing the challenges of climate change and scarcity.

To our knowledge, there is limited formal documentation of the specific ancestral practices described by the women in Zambrano. Therefore, this study contributes to filling that gap by directly recording and analyzing traditional knowledge from community members, particularly women whose roles have been historically overlooked in scientific and policy discourses.

3.2. Community Data on Ancestral Knowledge and River Systems

A survey was conducted among 39 women from the municipality of Zambrano (Colombia) to evaluate their perception of ancestral knowledge, its impact on water management, and its relationship with sustainability and social cohesion. Zambrano is a rural municipality located in the department of Bolívar, in northern Colombia, along the middle section of the Magdalena River basin. This region is characterized by its proximity to the Magdalena River, the country’s most crucial fluvial system and a network of smaller tributaries and wetlands that shape local livelihoods and cultural practices. The municipality’s economy is primarily based on small-scale agriculture and artisanal fishing, which are deeply intertwined with ancestral water management traditions (Figure 2).

3.2.1. Ancestral Knowledge and Its Link to Sustainability

The data analysis indicates that a high percentage (70%) of the women surveyed recognize the relevance of ancestral expertise in environmental sustainability and community resilience. However, the widespread perception is that this knowledge is at risk of disappearing due to the lack of intergenerational transmission and the growing influence of extractive practices. A total of 58% of the women surveyed indicated that, in the past, riverside communities implemented water management strategies based on ecosystem conservation, sustainable use of resources, and protection of water sources. However, a reduction in the application of these practices is observed today. Among the reasons given, the lack of policies to strengthen ancestral knowledge and the impact of urbanization in riverside territories stand out. Furthermore, heterogeneous responses were obtained when asked about initiatives to recover and adapt this knowledge. While some of the women surveyed indicated that there are community and organizational efforts to revitalize traditional knowledge, others expressed that there are no institutionalized initiatives to protect and promote this knowledge.

Additionally, several women from Zambrano shared specific ancestral practices from their mothers and grandmothers tied to river management. These include the use of lunar calendars to guide planting and fishing activities, the planting of native trees along riverbanks to control erosion, and the organization of communal water rituals aimed at maintaining the spiritual and ecological balance of the river. These practices supported environmental sustainability and created spaces for collective decision-making and cultural continuity. As noted by participants, the decline in these practices has weakened both ecological protection and intergenerational cohesion.

3.2.2. Economic Activities Associated with the Magdalena River

The results show that fishing and agriculture continue to be the main economic activities in the region, although a diversification towards informal trade and livestock farming has been identified. However, it is noted that fishing faces multiple threats, including water pollution and the decline of species, which has reduced the profitability of this activity. In total, 80% of the women surveyed indicated that, due to these changes, the new generations have chosen to abandon fishing and seek other sources of income. This finding is consistent with previous studies documenting the progressive transformation of local economies in riverside communities.

3.2.3. Social Cohesion and Conflict Resolution Mechanisms

The data on community cohesion show contrasting results. While one sector of the population perceives a strong sense of collaboration and mutual support, another group considers that social relations have deteriorated due to economic problems, territorial disputes, and changes in the community’s social structure. Community dialogue was identified as the most used strategy for conflict resolution mechanisms. Nevertheless, 35% of the women surveyed mentioned that trust in these processes has decreased, which has increased the dependence on external factors, such as the police or political leaders, to mediate disputes. Participants associated this decline with several changes in the local social fabric, including the weakening of extended family networks, urban migration, and the emergence of more complex conflicts involving land titles, infrastructure development, and political partisanship—areas where traditional mediators have limited authority. Additionally, the presence of external factors such as police or political leaders has gradually displaced informal mechanisms, particularly in cases requiring formal legal documentation or enforcement. These changes have led to a dependency on institutional structures, often perceived as less accessible or legitimate.

Women elders were frequently called upon to mediate water-related disputes using customary norms based on reciprocity, respect, and rotational access to water. These informal mechanisms were perceived as effective and culturally appropriate, reinforcing social cohesion. However, the weakening of these governance structures due to external pressures, such as migration and resource commodification, has contributed to the erosion of trust and increased reliance on external authorities. This result suggests that, although traditional community governance mechanisms remain in force, their capacity to respond to contemporary conflicts is limited, which makes it necessary to reconfigure these mediation spaces to strengthen their effectiveness.

3.2.4. Perception of Security and Participation in Decision-Making Spaces

The survey results indicate that the perception of security in the community shows divergent trends. While 30% of the women surveyed stated that there has been an improvement in security following the implementation of the peace agreement, others maintain that conditions of violence and vulnerability continue to affect the population. Regarding participation in spaces for dialogue and decision-making on peace, the majority of those surveyed indicated that there are some initiatives, such as community peace councils and municipal dialogue tables. However, it was identified that these spaces are limited and lack accurate representation, which prevents the community from actively formulating strategies for reconciliation and social justice. This divergence suggests a lack of coordination and visibility of existing peacebuilding initiatives or a genuine scarcity of institutional efforts to strengthen inclusive dialogue and local governance.

On the other hand, the results on the perception of job opportunities in the post-agreement framework reflect a negative assessment. While only 20% of the women surveyed consider that economic opportunities have improved with the implementation of peace policies, others claim that the impact has been minimal or negative, since the resources destined for job creation have not effectively reached the most vulnerable communities. To further illustrate the relationship between ancestral practices led by women and their socio-environmental impacts,

Table 1. Examples of ancestral water management practices led by women in Zambrano and their socio-environmental impacts. Note: Based on field data collected from surveyed women in Zambrano.

Practice	Ecological Function	Social Function	Impact Area
Lunar-based planting and fishing calendars	Harmonization with natural cycles and resource conservation	Intergenerational knowledge transmission	Sustainability, resilience
Riverbank reforestation with native trees	Erosion control; habitat protection	Collective action; preservation of sacred sites	Sustainability, social cohesion
Community-led river rituals	Spiritual and ecological purification	Cultural identity reinforcement	Peace, resilience
Mediation of water use disputes by elder women	Equitable water distribution	Conflict prevention and consensus-building	Peace, governance

summarizes key traditional water management practices identified in Zambrano and their associated ecological and social functions.

3.3. Analysis of the Impact on the Promotion of Peace and Community Development

The study of the effects of ancestral knowledge on promoting peace and community development was carried out using a qualitative approach, based on the analysis of case studies and the review of the specialized literature. This approach made it possible to examine how traditional practices linked to river systems have historically contributed to strengthening social cohesion, preventing and resolving conflicts, and consolidating community networks in different sociocultural contexts. Relevant cases of indigenous and rural communities in Latin America and other regions were selected, emphasizing the interaction between ancestral knowledge and contemporary social dynamics [1,6]. The literature reviewed highlights that, in various riverside societies, traditional knowledge has been a fundamental mechanism for regulating water use, equitable natural resource management, and resolving territorial disputes. In these contexts, governance based on community standards has favored building consensus and strengthening the social fabric, mitigating conflicts arising from access to and control of water resources.

Key indicators were identified to assess the impact of ancestral knowledge on peacebuilding that reflects the relationship between traditional wisdom and social stability. These include (i) the reduction in conflicts related to water use, thanks to the implementation of customary norms and community control systems; (ii) the increase in community participation in decision-making on the management of territory and natural resources; (iii) the strengthening of cultural identity and social cohesion, promoted by ancestral practices that reinforce solidarity and intergenerational cooperation; and (iv) the promotion of values such as social justice and equity, through the integration of traditional rights into local and regional regulatory frameworks [7,15]. The results indicate that communities that have maintained governance systems based on traditional norms have shown greater resilience in the face of external pressures, such as the expansion of extractive projects and the effects of climate change on their territories, supporting that ancestral knowledge constitutes a valuable resource for conserving river ecosystems and is a crucial factor in preventing conflicts and promotion peace. These systems have also allowed for the construction of collective adaptation and resistance strategies, consolidating forms of social organization that reinforce self-determination and community sustainability.

3.4. Proposal of Strategies for Integration into Sustainable Resource Management Policies

River systems have been fundamental in shaping the worldview of multiple ancestral communities, in which rivers not only represent sources of water and resources but also sacred elements and living entities with a central role in social organization, spirituality, and territorial governance [9,15]. In many indigenous traditions, rivers are conceived as beings with their own agency, whose health and flow depend on a harmonious balance between humans and nature. This conception contrasts with Western approaches to water management, where rivers are seen as exploitable resources under extractive development models [22]. However, recent research has shown that ancestral river management practices, based on reciprocity and respect for water cycles, have contributed significantly to the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems and the prevention of socio-environmental conflicts related to water governance [1,6].

The recognition of the ancestral worldview in the planning of water systems has gained relevance in recent years, given that this knowledge has allowed for the development of community resilience strategies in the face of the climate crisis. Studies have shown that communities that maintain water management practices based on ancestral knowledge have a greater capacity to adapt to phenomena such as climate variability and the degradation of river ecosystems [5]. In this sense, some international governance frameworks have begun to incorporate principles of ancestral knowledge into strategies for the conservation and sustainable use of water, recognizing the importance of this knowledge in the regulation of flows, the restoration of wetlands, and the protection of water sources [8]. However, challenges persist regarding legal recognition and equity in the participation of traditional communities within water management policies. This highlights the need for more inclusive governance models that respect and enhance the ancestral worldview in managing rivers and their biodiversity [23].

To formulate strategies for integrating ancestral knowledge into the sustainable management of natural resources, a critical analysis of existing public policies was carried out, as well as an evaluation of previous proposals for incorporating traditional knowledge into environmental governance frameworks. This analysis was carried out in three stages: (i) the identification of relevant policies and regulatory frameworks at local, national, and international levels, (ii) the evaluation of opportunities and barriers for the incorporation of traditional practices into sustainable resource management, and (iii) the design of proposals that promote convergence between ancestral knowledge and modern sustainability approaches [8,9].

To assess the viability of these proposals, a review of regulatory documents, development plans, and international treaties on water and biodiversity management was conducted. This approach made it possible to identify cases in which ancestral knowledge has been successfully incorporated into environmental planning and the existing regulatory gaps in territories where this knowledge has not been formally recognized. Likewise, a comparative analysis of different sustainable governance models that have integrated traditional practices into natural resource management was carried out [1,5]. The study showed that, in contexts where ancestral knowledge has been incorporated into territorial management and the conservation of water ecosystems, better results have been achieved regarding sustainability, equity in access to resources, and strengthening of community resilience. However, multiple challenges were also identified in implementing these approaches, such as the lack of legal recognition of traditional governance systems, the exclusion of local communities in decision-making processes, and the difficulty of articulating ancestral knowledge with contemporary regulatory frameworks.

Based on these findings, strategies are proposed to integrate ancestral knowledge into the sustainable management of natural resources effectively. These strategies include the following:

• Legal recognition and strengthening of traditional governance—promote the inclusion of community water and biodiversity management systems within national and international regulatory frameworks, ensuring the effective participation of indigenous peoples and local communities in formulating environmental policies.
• Creation of spaces for intercultural dialogue—promote the generation of participation instances where ancestral and scientific knowledge can converge in formulating sustainability strategies adapted to each territory.
• Incorporation of traditional knowledge in land use and water resource planning—implement land use planning mechanisms that integrate ancestral practices in conserving watersheds, wetlands, and water recharge zones.
• Development of education and knowledge transfer programs—design programs that promote teaching traditional ecosystem management practices in combination with modern scientific approaches, ensuring their intergenerational transmission.
• Strengthening incentives for conservation based on ancestral knowledge—establish financial and technical support mechanisms for communities that implement traditional practices for sustainable management of natural resources.

Implementing these strategies would represent an opportunity to articulate ancestral knowledge and contemporary approaches to sustainability, recognize the importance of traditional knowledge in conserving ecosystems, and construct more equitable and resilient development models.

4. Discussion

4.1. Case Study: Colombia—Ancestral Knowledge and River Systems

In Latin America, the search for peace has been intrinsically linked to the history of internal conflicts that have marked the different regions of the countries within it. In the case of Colombia, this constant search for a negotiated solution to the conflict has led the population to mobilize actively. In recent years, transitional justice mechanisms have been strategically used, creating opportunities for broader citizen participation in dialogues aimed at reconciliation and constructing a lasting peace [10,24]. These dialogues seek a negotiated solution to the conflict and a profound transformation of the political, economic, cultural, environmental, and social structures that have historically perpetuated the invisibility and discrimination of many communities [24]. In Latin American countries, factors such as armed conflict, poverty, poor environmental education, and insecurity have significantly impacted the lack of community development, consolidating themselves as systematic tools of control and domination in contexts of generalized violence. During the 20th century, these conflicts’ origins were mainly centered on tensions between political parties and the dispute over land ownership. Political violence intensified during the “La Violencia” (1948–1958). The formation of armed groups aggravated it, the consolidation of the drug economy, and the strengthening of military forces in several countries [10,24]. This has contributed to social disarray, perpetuating the structural inequality affecting the territories’ most vulnerable communities.

In Zambrano, for example, older women have historically organized collective clean-up days along the river and coordinated seasonal rituals for water purification and blessings. These actions served ecological functions and played a vital role in social organization, reinforcing values of mutual care and environmental stewardship. The gradual loss of these practices has been associated with a decline in ecological resilience and community cohesion.

4.1.1. Ancestral Roots in River System Management

Multiple regions have significant natural and cultural wealth at national and international levels in Latin America, and their knowledge, understanding, and strategic assessment are key factors that guarantee their protection and conservation. Of these scenarios, we highlight the great variety of water resources that bathe and cross these territories [1]. These geographical advantages allow us to value and involve alternative environmental and resilience scientific contributions with ancestral knowledge, practices, and beliefs that account for the essential relationships of indigenous communities with nature and their environment [1,25]. These inclusion alternatives will allow us to visualize and project new forms of sustainable environmental management in the short, medium, and long terms that will guide critical management processes related to the use and management of water and land in different communities.

This ancestral knowledge, the product of a life dedicated to empirical learning and a deep connection with nature, represents a unique way of existing and understanding the cosmos. The stories of these communities reveal an archetypal worldview that articulates their collective behavior from a perspective of spirituality and respect for their environment. In the specific case of indigenous communities, their ancestral practices and the symbolic and material relationship with nature are rooted in their collective imagination, evidencing the richness and complexity of their culture. This territorial connection defines their identity and promotes harmonious relationships between human beings and their natural environment, contributing significantly to peace and community development [26].

4.1.2. Ancestral Practices in Water Management

Ancestral communities have developed water management practices deeply rooted in observing natural cycles, biodiversity, and the interconnection between ecosystems and socioeconomic dynamics. These practices, transmitted from generation to generation, have enabled the sustainable use of water resources and resilience to extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods [9,27]. In various indigenous cultures in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, water management is based on community-based water distribution systems, prioritizing equity and resource access and use sustainability. An example is the Andean irrigation ditches, used by Quechua and Aymara communities in the Andes, where water is collectively managed through customary norms that guarantee its rational use and the conservation of water sources [23,28].

Another relevant model is that of the chinampas in Mesoamerica, an agro-hydraulic system developed by the Nahua peoples that allows for the production of crops in floodable areas through the construction of artificial islets, optimizing water use and avoiding soil erosion [5]. Similarly, in the Amazon region, indigenous communities have developed techniques for storing rainwater and regulating flows through wetland management, contributing to aquatic ecosystems’ stability [6]. These strategies contrast Western approaches to water management, which have promoted the construction of large hydraulic infrastructures with negative impacts on ecosystems and equitable water distribution [1,8].

While these systems have proven effective over generations, some countries have developed initiatives to integrate this knowledge into formal water governance frameworks. In Bolivia, for example, the Constitution recognizes the rights of indigenous peoples to manage their water systems, which has allowed Quechua and Aymara communities to maintain control over their water sources through customary rules of distribution and sustainable use [29]. Similarly, in Canada, various First Nations communities have regained management of their river territories through co-governance arrangements, facilitating the protection of watersheds and the restoration of degraded ecosystems [30]. These models have shown that integrating ancestral knowledge into water management strengthens ecological sustainability and contributes to equity in resource distribution, avoiding conflicts over access to water and promoting community resilience to the impacts of climate change [31]. However, despite these advances, many communities in Latin America still face structural barriers that limit their participation in decision-making on water management, underscoring the need for more inclusive policies that guarantee the recognition and protection of their traditional governance systems. In this context, integrating ancestral practices into water policymaking could offer sustainable and culturally appropriate solutions to meet contemporary water management challenges, reinforcing the role of local communities in the conservation of river systems.

4.1.3. Impact of Modernity and Conflicts on River Systems and Communities

The management of river systems faces a series of challenges. While the ecological balance of waterways is indispensable for the life and well-being of communities, modernization dynamics have imposed a logic of exploitation that progressively degrades them. From an extractivist perspective, water has gone from an articulating element of community life to a resource subject to economic interests, fragmented regulations, and social pressures prioritizing profitability over sustainability [31]. In this process, ancestral knowledge that had guaranteed the harmonious management of rivers for centuries has been displaced by planning models that ignore the interdependence between society and its natural environment. The disconnection between these forms of knowledge compromises the regenerative capacity of water ecosystems and weakens the cultural ties of communities that historically have been protectors of these territories [32]. Without critical rethinking of how these systems are managed, the water crisis will continue to deepen inequalities and vulnerabilities, especially in the most excluded sectors of the population.

In addition to the changes and impacts generated by modernity, river systems have also been scenes of conflict, in which water ceases to be a common good and becomes a resource disputed by actors with unequal interests [33]. In many regions, access to and control of rivers have been instrumentalized in contexts of violence, and displacement has been promoted to make way for resource exploitation projects, large-scale infrastructure, or even illegal activities. The imposition of these development models has accelerated ecological degradation and destabilized community life, creating a vacuum in territorial management that leaves river ecosystems even more exposed to pollution and resource depletion [34]. The lack of adequate regulations and institutional weakness in these scenarios has made it easier for private interests to prevail over collective well-being, deepening social exclusion and exacerbating socio-environmental conflicts [35]. This reality requires not only the protection of rivers from an ecological perspective but also the vindication of the rights of communities that have historically depended on them for their livelihood and culture.

Despite these conflicts, some regions have implemented strategies to balance modern development with preserving ancestral knowledge. An example is the expansion of extractive development models and the implementation of large hydraulic infrastructures that have generated tensions between riverside communities and private actors in charge of water management. In many cases, these projects have led to the forced displacement of populations, the alteration of water ecosystems, and the loss of ancestral water management practices [27]. However, in some territories, initiatives have been developed that seek to mitigate these impacts through participatory governance models. An example is the Pastaza River basin in Ecuador, where indigenous communities have established co-management agreements with the government to guarantee equitable access to water and the protection of river ecosystems [6].

These examples show that modernity is not incompatible with ancestral knowledge and that hybrid management strategies can be designed to combine technological approaches with traditional practices. However, for these models to be effective, it is necessary to establish mechanisms for intercultural dialogue and recognize the historical rights of communities over their water territories [8]. Faced with this scenario, integrating ancestral knowledge into water resource governance represents an opportunity to rethink the relationship between society and nature from a perspective of sustainability and justice. These practices, based on respect for natural cycles and the collective management of resources, have proven to be viable strategies to strengthen the resilience of communities in the face of climate change and the water crisis [36]. However, its recognition must transcend the symbolic sphere and materialize in policies that allow for its effective incorporation into territorial planning and development models [37]. To do so, it is necessary to overcome the fragmented vision that opposes the ancestral to the modern, promoting a dialogue in which both perspectives complement each other and contribute to constructing more equitable and sustainable management systems. Only in this way will it be possible to reverse the deterioration of rivers; guarantee their long-term viability; and reestablish their role as essential elements for life, culture, and social cohesion.

4.1.4. Contributions of River Systems to Sustainability and Community Progress

River systems, being fundamental, foster sustainable local economies that provide indispensable resources for agriculture, fisheries, energy generation, and community livelihoods. However, their effective management depends on adopting integrated strategies that combine scientific approaches with ancestral knowledge. The findings discussed above highlight how traditional practices, rooted in deep ecological understanding, align with contemporary sustainability goals, opening possibilities to intervene in human activities’ impacts and empowering local communities, promoting an economy based on equity, cultural diversity, and ecological restoration [38].

These practices, such as precise water distribution through ancient irrigation systems, exemplify a deep understanding of environmental cycles. They also highlight the limitations of purely modern, extraction-based approaches, which often overlook the socio-environmental dynamics critical to the long-term sustainability of river ecosystems. By harnessing these ancestral inputs, local economies can build resilience to global water scarcity and climate change, fostering equitable resource distribution and inclusive growth [39]. However, the degradation of river systems due to unsustainable agricultural practices, industrialization, and climate-induced stresses threatens their viability and the economies they support. The above findings underscore the pressing need for governance frameworks integrating indigenous perspectives’ symbolic and material dimensions. Such integration enriches decision-making and counteracts the growing inequalities caused by poor water management and resource conflicts [40].

Furthermore, ancestral practices offer practical models for balancing ecological conservation with economic productivity. By integrating these approaches into localized policies, it is possible to transition towards economic systems that prioritize environmental integrity, community empowerment, and cultural preservation, ensuring that the value of river systems transcends mere utility to become a basis for sustainable coexistence [41,42]. Achieving sustainable coexistence also requires integrating ancestral and scientific knowledge through collaborative frameworks. For instance, community-based water monitoring programs can incorporate traditional ecological indicators, such as changes in animal behavior or river sound patterns, alongside satellite imagery and hydrological data. Climate forecasting models and soil sensors can enhance agroecological practices based on ancestral planting cycles. Likewise, policy design can be strengthened through intercultural dialogue that recognizes the legitimacy of customary norms while embedding them within scientific standards for biodiversity and water resource management. These approaches respect epistemological plurality and offer more comprehensive, context-sensitive solutions to contemporary environmental challenges. Incorporating ancestral practices in ecological management reinforces community resilience from a technical perspective and constitutes a political and epistemological act of resistance against the hegemony of knowledge. These practices represent complex knowledge systems that articulate symbolic, spiritual, and material relationships with the environment, offering alternatives for sustainability that transcend merely technocratic solutions. In this sense, the value of these practices should not be limited to their functionality but understood as a recognition of the legitimacy of worldviews that prioritize interdependence and regeneration. This approach not only makes it possible to face challenges such as the scarcity of water resources but also reinforces cultural identity and social cohesion by legitimizing forms of knowledge that have historically been marginalized [43].

In addition to contributing to environmental sustainability, river systems have proven to be a basis for developing sustainable economic alternatives in riverside communities. In many territories, the relationship of indigenous and peasant peoples with rivers is mediated by practices of reciprocity and cooperation that strengthen the sense of belonging and cultural identity. These dynamics have been documented in various regions, such as in the case of the Amazon, where communities have implemented community water monitoring programs to detect and mitigate pollution generated by extractive activities, managing to influence decision-making on the management of their territories [5]. Strengthening community governance over river systems has proven to be an effective strategy for environmental conservation. Still, it has also contributed to generating sustainable economic alternatives, such as ecological tourism and regulated artisanal fishing. These initiatives have allowed many communities to reduce their dependence on extractive activities and improve their quality of life through development models based on the sustainable management of water resources [1]. The empirical findings from Zambrano add critical nuance to the literature by providing concrete examples of women’s ancestral knowledge in practice. These localized strategies demonstrate ecological intelligence embedded in traditional practices and reveal how such knowledge contributes to peaceful coexistence, self-governance, and community resilience. Recognizing these contributions challenges the marginalization of local knowledge systems and offers a model for inclusive water governance.

Beyond their environmental dimension, ancestral practices configure an ethical paradigm that promotes reciprocity and mutual care relationships, essential for peacebuilding in contexts of inequality and conflict. By claiming the intrinsic connection between communities and their environment, extractivist dynamics that perpetuate structural violence and dispossession are challenged. Furthermore, including this knowledge generates space for intercultural dialogue, where historically unequal power relations are reconfigured, enabling more equitable agreements on managing shared resources. In this sense, traditional actions contribute to environmental sustainability and act as transformative tools that challenge structures of exclusion, promoting peace rooted in social and ecological justice [44].

4.1.5. Social Appropriation of Knowledge and Environmental Education

The social appropriation of knowledge plays a fundamental role in the conservation of river ecosystems and the sustainability of territories, as it allows for the transmission and application of ancestral knowledge in the management of water and biodiversity. In this sense, environmental education emerges as a key mechanism for articulating traditional and scientific knowledge, promoting participatory governance strategies involving local communities in managing their natural resources [9,23]. Various studies have shown that environmental education programs that integrate the indigenous and peasant worldview generate higher levels of community commitment and strengthen cultural identity, facilitating sustainable water conservation and use practices [1,6].

Thus, environmental education is fundamental in preserving ancestral knowledge and integrating it into sustainable management strategies. In some Latin American countries, intercultural education programs have been developed to transmit traditional water knowledge to new generations. An example is the community environmental education model in Ecuador and Peru, where indigenous schools have incorporated knowledge about river ecosystem management into their curricula, combining Western science with ancestral practices [23,45]. These programs have shown that the social appropriation of knowledge can be a key mechanism for environmental resilience and reducing socio-environmental conflicts. Strengthening ecological education in rural contexts allows communities to acquire tools for the autonomous management of their natural resources and to influence public policies [8]. However, challenges persist in institutionalizing these approaches, as formal educational systems prioritize Western teaching models, relegating traditional knowledge to informal learning spaces.

To overcome these limitations, it is essential to develop collaborative training programs that articulate scientific approaches with ancestral knowledge, thus promoting more inclusive environmental education adapted to local realities. In this way, the intergenerational transmission of knowledge on water management and its integration into sustainable water governance can be guaranteed. Furthermore, environmental education based on the social appropriation of knowledge contributes to the prevention of ecological conflicts, since it fosters spaces for dialogue between different actors, including local communities, academic institutions, and government agencies [8]. Experiences in Latin America have shown that intercultural education programs that combine ancestral knowledge with scientific approaches have allowed for the recovery of traditional water management techniques, such as wetland management and the restoration of riparian ecosystems [5]. However, challenges persist in incorporating these approaches into formal education systems, due to the lack of institutional recognition of traditional knowledge and the hegemony of Western models in environmental education [27]. To move towards more inclusive and effective environmental education, it is necessary to strengthen collaborative learning spaces and community training programs that allow for the integration of multiple forms of knowledge in water management and the conservation of river systems.

Reviving women’s ancestral knowledge in river management requires creating adaptive frameworks that combine traditional practices with current sustainability goals. This includes developing intercultural environmental education programs incorporating local knowledge into school curricula; supporting women-led community projects for riverbank restoration, agroecological production, and water monitoring; and ensuring institutional recognition of female traditional leaders in water governance structures. These initiatives facilitate the intergenerational transmission of knowledge and empower women as agents of ecological and social resilience in the face of climate change and systemic inequality. To achieve this revival, several structural conditions must be met. First, legal frameworks must formally recognize traditional governance systems and community-based water rights. Second, education systems should promote intercultural, participatory approaches that validate traditional knowledge as scientifically and socially relevant. Third, inclusive governance mechanisms must guarantee equitable participation of women in decision-making spaces, not just as beneficiaries but as leaders. Finally, financial and technical support should be directed toward community-driven projects that preserve and adapt ancestral knowledge. Without these enabling conditions, efforts risk becoming symbolic rather than transformative.

5. Conclusions

This study demonstrates that ancestral knowledge associated with river systems represents a valuable tool for sustainable water management and promoting peace and community development. Through research, it has been shown that riverside communities have developed water management practices based on principles of reciprocity, equity, and respect for natural cycles, which have contributed to the conservation of water ecosystems and socio-environmental resilience. However, this knowledge faces multiple challenges, such as the lack of legal recognition, pressure from extractive models, and the limited participation of communities in water governance. Additionally, this research contributes to the formal documentation of ancestral water knowledge that has largely remained unrecorded, particularly in the case of women from Zambrano. By systematically gathering and analyzing community-based data, this study preserves key practices and values at risk of disappearing due to generational gaps and external pressures. This represents an important step toward safeguarding intangible biocultural heritage and supporting the integration of traditional knowledge into contemporary governance models. Integrating ancestral knowledge into water management policies strengthens environmental sustainability and promotes social cohesion and conflict prevention in territories affected by disputes over access to natural resources. The evidence suggests that recognizing and protecting this knowledge could contribute to community peacebuilding, facilitating the resolution of conflicts through traditional governance structures. To this end, strategies are proposed for effectively incorporating ancestral knowledge into water resource management, including legalizing community management systems, creating spaces for intercultural dialogue, and strengthening educational programs promoting ancestral knowledge’s intergenerational transmission. Integrating these approaches into water conservation and use policies will allow for progress towards more equitable and sustainable governance models, where ancestral wisdom and modern science converge in constructing resilient and sustainable territories. While the findings are not intended to establish causal relationships, they provide grounded insights into how communities perceive the socio-environmental contributions of ancestral water knowledge, particularly among women, as a potential pathway toward more resilient and peaceful territories.