In Africa's history, colonialism deeply impacted indigenous knowledge, influencing cultural identity, knowledge transmission, and societal dynamics. Examining disruptions in education, governance, and environmental practices, the review synthesises insights from scholarly works to elucidate the marginalisation and erosion of traditional systems. It places particular emphasis on cultural identity and knowledge transmission. Simultaneously, the review explores the transformative potential of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) in addressing global challenges, utilising a qualitative lens to extract nuanced perspectives. Advocating for a holistic approach, the review underscores the qualitative integration of indigenous knowledge into 4IR development, emphasising technology's ethical and culturally sensitive application. This qualitative research perspective aims to contribute valuable depth to our understanding of the intricate interplay between historical legacies, indigenous knowledge, and contemporary technological advancements for a more inclusive and sustainable global future.