Former president Jacob Zuma has called on government to deploy izangoma and traditional healers to hospitals and clinics.
Zuma is pushing for collaboration between modern medicine and traditional healing by proposing that izangoma should work alongside healthcare professionals in clinics and hospitals to assist patients.
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He was addressing scores of uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) party members at the Siyabalanda rally in the Phuthaditjhaba Multipurpose Hall in the Free State on Sunday, 31 August.
The former president wants government to employ izangoma and traditional healers in hospitals to bridge the gap between modern and traditional medicine.
Zuma argued that colonisers have taken African medicine, modernised it, and are now selling it back to Africans at huge prices.
“We want indigenous medication to be integrated into hospitals and clinics. We believe medical aid should cover traditional healing practices.”
“Our traditional healers deserve the same recognition as medical doctors. Why aren’t sick notes issued by recognised izangoma?” said Zuma.
MK national spokesman Nhlamulo Ndhlela said that the colonisers instilled a flawed mindset that undermines traditional healers through their oppressive laws.
“We need to break down the stigma that only recognises Western products. It’s time to change the constitution, which currently puts us at a disadvantage.”
“We require a supreme law that caters to all black communities, eliminating privileges for some while marginalising others,” he said.
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Sangoma Gogo Rebecca Moduka voiced her support for MK’s initiative to integrate traditional healers into the healthcare system.
“This is a significant initiative. We will definitely work together with medical doctors to close the gap. We will be able to assist in the use of ancestors if a patient needs traditional healing,” she said.
