The Mpumalanga Department of Health hosted the national commemoration of African Traditional Medicine Day at Kamhlushwa Stadium, under the theme: “Reflection on Research and Development Efforts of Traditional Medicine Towards Achieving Universal Health Coverage in the African Region.”
The commemoration brought together government representatives, traditional health practitioners (THP), researchers and communities to highlight the important role of traditional medicine in Africa and the need for stronger collaboration with the formal healthcare system.
Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, highlighted ongoing discussions with traditional health practitioner associations and other stakeholders on the future of traditional medicine in South Africa. He emphasised the importance of developing appropriate structures and areas of practice, including traditional midwifery, traditional surgery and general traditional health practice.
Representing the MEC for Health, Deputy Director-General for Clinical Health Services, Ms Duduzile Mdluli, emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation between traditional health practitioners and government healthcare facilities, ‘”in Mpumalanga this collaboration is already being strengthened through training provided by the department to the THP. Practitioners have received basic skills to measure blood pressure, conduct blood glucose screening and identify symptoms associated with tuberculosis (TB)”.
The commemoration also highlighted the importance of research, regulation and registration of traditional health practitioners to promote safe practices, protect communities and ensure accountability within the sector.
The event featured traditional medicine exhibitions and demonstrations, showcasing research and products from various organisations. Community members and participants also accessed comprehensive health services, including HIV and TB screening, blood pressure testing and other health services.
The programme began with a 5-kilometre health walk, followed by a 45-minute cardio session facilitated by Gagu Fitness Centre, promoting healthy lifestyles among participants.
Mpumalanga’s hosting of the national commemoration reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between traditional health practitioners and the formal healthcare sector towards a safe, coordinated and accessible healthcare system.
Issued by the Department of Health’s Communication Directorate.