Traditional healers and herbalists in Uganda have established a new umbrella organization called the Re-Union of Traditional Healers and Herbalists Association.
The association unites practitioners from more than 18 organizations across different districts and regions of the country. Previously, these practitioners operated under various associations, leading to inconsistencies in rules and guidelines.
Jemba Lumiramayengo from Gguluddene Traditional Healers, elected Chairperson of the new association, stated its primary goal is to combat quack herbalists responsible for human sacrifice cases in the country. He also emphasized the need to address land grabbers who threaten their sacred sites.
Jamil Mukwaya Lutakome, President of the Uganda Herbalists Association and a National Drug Authority representative, noted an increase in registered herbalists, totaling over 300. He urged for unified advocacy to secure government support and funding.
Lutakome called on the government to allocate land for cultivating endangered medicinal plants crucial for treating various diseases, endangered due to climate change impacts.
Kabuye Kyofatogabye, State Minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, stressed the importance of adding value to traditional medicine to meet global market standards. He announced the Ministry of Science and Technology, led by Dr. Monica Musenero, will collaborate with herbalists to enhance local medicinal practices.
Kyofatogabye encouraged healers to consolidate under one association to access government initiatives.
Dr. Hilary Emanuel Musoke from the Office of the President urged the new association’s leadership to unify other herbalist associations.
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