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The struggle for epistemic justice : a case of Tumbukas among the Chewa establishments in Malawi
   

The struggle for epistemic justice : a case of Tumbukas among the Chewa establishments in Malawi

Mackenzie Ishmael Chibambo, Gildart Macdonald Mshamboza Joseph Jinja Divala
Frontiers in communication, Vol.11
01/06/2026
:
https://hdl.handle.net/10210/519903
communication modes cultural expression epistemic harms epistemic justice epistemic silencing identity
This study aimed to understand and explain how power dynamics and cultural dominance shape marginalization of Tumbukas’ traditional knowledge, identity and cultural expressions. The study investigated systemic and systematic epistemic injustices faced by the Tumbukas within Chewa establishments of Malawi. Using a mixed methods approach, we examined how systemic and systematic power dynamics and cultural dominance have led to marginalization of Tumbukas’ knowledge, traditions, and representation within these areas. It also explored how the Tumbukas’ have actively resisted and responded to oppressive structures using various strategies aimed at preserving their culture and knowledge heritage. The findings revealed persistent epistemic injustices through language and cultural marginalization within these contexts. It also highlighted the existence of, and the need for Intergenerational shifts in justice and resistance approaches, as younger Tumbukas have increasingly resorted to more confrontational strategies. This research highlights the importance of fostering epistemic justice to promote culture and language diversity, inclusivity and social justice in general.

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url
https://doi.org/10.3389/fcomm.2026.1735861
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