By Alex Adi
Traditional medicine practitioners are calling for greater inclusion in the treatment and management of Lassa fever and other infectious diseases in West Africa.
At the ECOWAS Lassa Fever International Conference in Abidjan, lead practitioners argued that traditional medicine should serve as the first line of defence during epidemics. With support from the West African Health Organisation (WAHO), a revised regulatory guideline is being developed to emphasise strict adherence to ethics, research quality, and documentation standards for traditional medicine practitioners.
Despite advances in modern medicine, many communities continue to rely on traditional healing methods, including medicinal plants and therapeutic practices passed down through generations. The second ECOWAS Lassa Fever International Conference provided a platform for stakeholders to explore how traditional and community-based health practices can improve outcomes and inform culturally sensitive epidemic preparedness strategies.
Pro-Vice Chancellor of Pentecost University, Professor Kofi Busia, said traditional medicine, when backed by regulatory standards, holds promise for effective epidemic management.
“Traditional medicine practice should be the first port of call when there is an epidemic, but usually we are left out. Engaging traditional practitioners is key to delivering effective community interventions,” he told GBC News.
While some analysts argue that many traditional practices lack extensive clinical trials to prove their efficacy and safety, traditional practitioners say they are ready to comply with regulated standards. Director of Traditional and Alternative Medicine at the Ministry of Health, Dr Anastasia Yirenkyi, highlighted the potential of herbal medicine in tackling both communicable and non-communicable diseases.
“We want to come out with products that will stand the test of time and sell across boundaries, products that serve both communicable and non-communicable diseases. The whole world is looking up to us. Africa is enriched with potential herbal medicines,” she said.
The integration of traditional medicine practice into a major conference on Lassa fever and emerging infectious diseases marks a significant step toward collaboration and inclusivity in West Africa’s healthcare landscape.
