African traditional medicine has gained a new interest in the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This comes based on observations made in commemoration of African Traditional Medicine Day 2022 which falls annually on August 31.

Responding to the COVID-19 global pandemic, rapid vaccine research and the development and repurposing of drugs in the fight against the disease happened on great scales. Interestingly, traditional medicines have also benefited from renewed interest as a possible solution for the disease.

African traditional medicines have been used by African people long before the arrival of modern medicine, and still continue to be used as treatment for a range of diseases and illnesses. Although some people still do not believe in their value as medicines for serious and chronic illnesses, the World Health Organisation (WHO) asserts that African traditional medicines should be given a more prominent role as approximately 80% of the African population rely on traditional medicine for their basic healthcare.

Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, wrote: “Traditional medicine has been the trusted, acceptable, affordable and accessible source of health care for African populations for centuries.”

There has been an increase in people turning to traditional medicine in search for possible cures or remedies for COVID-19 on an individual and national level. For example, in Cameroon two complementary therapy products for Covid-19 have been approved by the government, while Madagascar’s herbal remedy, Covid-Organics Plus Curative has been in phase II clinical trials. COVID Organics is an Artemisia-based drink developed and produced in Madagascar by the Malagasy Institute of Applied Research, and has received support from several other African countries including Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria, DRC, and Guinea Bissau.

African Traditional Medicines Day is aimed at gaining more support for the continent to fast-track the research and development of African traditional medicine products. With adequate support, there is hope for a viable future for the establishment of African traditional medicines in healthcare. This would include manufacturing value chains which would feature commercial cultivations, research and development, manufacturing, distribution, logistics and marketing.