Joseph Isangura
The Mwanza Regional Commissioner, Mr. Saidi Mtanda, has called on traditional medicine practitioners across the country to collaborate with the government in combating and eradicating violence within communities.
Mr. Mtanda made the statement on August 28, 2024, during the opening of the Traditional Medicine Week and African Traditional Medicine Celebrations at the Furahisha Grounds in Ilemela Municipality, Mwanza.
“Traditional healers play a crucial role in enhancing the health of Tanzanians. By integrating your remedies with those provided at hospitals, the public will thrive with better health,” said Mr. Mtanda. He further emphasized, “I urge everyone to unite in the fight against violence, including the recent reports of albino and child murders.”
Additionally, Mr. Mtanda used the occasion to encourage traditional medicine practitioners to register with the Traditional and Alternative Medicine Council and renew their licenses annually to avoid legal issues.
“I believe that when traditional medicine is improved, it performs on par with conventional treatments. This is why over 60% of Tanzanians use these traditional remedies, which are beneficial. We recognize that traditional and alternative medicine have made significant contributions to public health, and the Regional Commission, through the health sector, acknowledges this,” stated the Regional Commissioner.
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In response, Dr. Elizabeth Lema, Assistant Chairperson of the Traditional and Alternative Medicine Council, noted that traditional practitioners have transitioned from traditional practices to more modern approaches. Some now provide integrated services alongside professionals from conventional hospitals, who acknowledge the significant role of traditional medicine in treating various ailments.
Martin Mgogwa, the Registrar of the Traditional and Alternative Medicine Council, clarified that the council not only registers practitioners but also oversees, regulates, and promotes traditional medicine in the country. This includes ensuring that all practitioners are registered and renew their licenses annually within their regions.
