Lesotho marks African Traditional Medicine Day

Lesotho is today commemorating African Traditional Medicine Day under the theme: “Strengthen the evidence base for traditional medicine.” 

The day is intended to raise awareness about the significant role that traditional medicine plays in enhancing the health and well-being of people across the continent and beyond.

The theme directly supports the United NationsSustainable Development Goal 3 (promoting good health and well-being).

In a statement, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry said the commemoration aims to create a platform to recognise the importance of traditional medicine and indigenous knowledge, and promote the sharing of knowledge and skills.

The celebration also seeks to promote the safe and effective use of traditional medicine through appropriate regulation of products, practices, and practitioners.

“The commemoration further aims to raise awareness on the conservation and sustainable use of medicinal plants, which are increasingly threatened by over-harvesting and uncontrolled use,” the ministry noted.

Participants include western medical practitioners, traditional health practitioners, herbalists, biotraders, naturopaths, homeopaths, phytotherapists, as well as representatives from various government ministries.

Discussions will explore the potential of traditional medicine to promote holistic health and well-being through best practices, emerging scientific evidence, and innovative approaches.

This will be the second national commemoration, following the inaugural celebration held on December 14, 2024. In 2002, the World Health Organisation African Region declared and adopted 31 August as African Traditional Medicine Day.