- Improving control of harvesting from natural stands of vegetation, e.g.
permit systems for registered collectors/TMPs - Improving harvesting methods, e.g. prevention of ring barking of trees.
TPs would be well placed to advise their communities about the need for
plant conservation and to coordinate efforts in this regard.
Regional initiatives in respect of traditional medical
practice
In addition to the WHA and WHO general recommendations in respect of
traditional medical practice outlined above, the WHO African Regional
Office has tabled a strategy promoting the use of TMs in reducing morbidity
and mortality on the continent and, during a meeting of African Ministers
of Health, has taken a decision to celebrate African Traditional Medicine
Day on 31 August each year. The African Union (AU) has acknowledged the
critical role of traditional medical practice in healthcare provision in Africa
and formulated a Plan of Action (AHG/Dec 164 XXXVIII) in this regard.
The primary objective of this plan is the institutionalisation, by 2010, of
African traditional medical practice in the public health systems of AU
member states. The period 2001–10 has been declared the Decade of
African Traditional Medicine and an Africa Health Strategy (2007–15) has
been formulated, focusing on the strengthening of health systems for equity
and development in Africa.
Traditional medical practice in Africa | 113Figure 5.9 Traditional medicines on sale in the marketplace, Maseru, Lesotho.