The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Traditional healers and herbalists in Uganda have formed a new umbrella organization, the Re-Union of Traditional Healers and Herbalists Association.
The association brings together practitioners from over 18 organizations in different districts and regions of the country. Previously, traditional healers and herbalists operated under different associations, resulting in a lack of uniform rules and guidelines.
Jemba Lumiramayengo from Gguluddene Traditional Healers, who is the Chairperson of the new association, said that the association is aimed at curbing quack herbalists in the country. He said that the quack herbalists have a hand in cases of human sacrifice in the country.
Lumiramayengo also highlighted the need to crack down on land grabbers who destroy their shrines.
Jamil Mukwaya Lutakome, the President of the Uganda Herbalists Association and a representative at the National Drug Authority (NDA), noted an increase in registered herbalists, now numbering over 300. He called for a unified voice to lobby for government assistance and funding.
Lutakome said that since the traditional herbalists and healers have formed an association, he urged the government to provide land for planting valuable tree species used to treat various diseases, which are becoming extinct due to the effects of climate change.
State Minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs Kabuye Kyofatogabye, emphasized the need for value addition to traditional medicine to meet international market standards.
He said that the herbalists will be guided by the Ministry of Science and Technology, headed by Dr. Monica Musenero, to improve local herbal medicine.
Kyofatogabye urged traditional healers and herbalists to unite under one umbrella organization to benefit from government programs.
Dr. Hilary Emanuel Musoke from the Office of the President asked the leadership of the new association to bring together other associations.
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