13 February 2006
It is disturbing to note that the Democratic Alliance (DA) continues to
perpetuate racist stereotypes that African traditional medicines are inferior
products manufactured by wizards.
DA health spokesperson Dianne Kohler Barnard's comment in a statement
released today, that ubhejane is a "fake AIDS cure" manufactured by "a backyard
chemist", demonstrate the extent to which the organisation (DA) undermines
African traditional practices.
The Ministry of Health is determined to defend and promote indigenous
knowledge system because we believe that traditional medicines and traditional
health practitioners have an important role to play in the health system of the
country.
African traditional medicine has continued to provide health relief to
millions of Africans throughout the continent despite sustained efforts to
undermine its credibility.
We will continue to support the research and development of traditional
medicine and promote the consumption of food products that assist in
strengthening the immune system by providing necessary micronutrients.
Enquiries:
Sibani Mngadi
Spokesperson for the Minister of Health
Cell: 082 772 0161
Issued by: Department of Health
13 February 2006
