Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane led the Provincial Government in celebrating African Traditional Medicine Day in Idutywa Stadium, Amathole District Municipality recently.

This is a symbol by the Provincial Government to recognise the contributions and the

significant role played by Traditional Health Practitioners (THPs) in providing healthcare

services to the people of the province.

Traditional African medicine is a holistic discipline involving the use of indigenous herbalism

combined with aspects of African spirituality.

About 80% of Africa's population relies on traditional medicine for their basic health needs. In

some instances, traditional medicine becomes the only healthcare service available,

accessible, and affordable to some people in our communities.

In such cases, the significant contribution of traditional medicine as a major provider of

healthcare services cannot be underestimated.

THPs and traditional medicine are critical components of the healthcare discipline for millions

of our people, especially in the rural areas. It is through regulated practice that a meaningful

contribution of the THPs in Primary Healthcare activities would be enhanced and facilitated.

These practitioners are separated by the methods that they use to diagnose and treat their

patients. It is also important to note that in the process, they also employ a number of

different traditional formularies.

During consultations with their clients, THPs are encouraged to record history and closely

monitor symptoms for possible referrals to health facilities, as preventable complications can

arise from a delay in treatment, and even endanger people's lives.