In many rural areas of Tanzania, traditional healers serve as the first point of contact for those experiencing illness. From treating fevers to addressing spiritual concerns, they play a vital role in their communities. However, certain life-threatening diseases, such as Marburg Virus Disease (MVD), can be misinterpreted as supernatural afflictions, delaying critical medical intervention.
To address this, Tanzania’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Africa CDC and WHO, has launched a training program for traditional healers in Biharamulo District. The initiative focuses on strengthening disease surveillance, improving infection prevention, and enhancing communication between healers and health authorities. Over 70 healers participated in the training, learning to recognize MVD symptoms, refer cases promptly, and combat misinformation.
Many African communities rely on traditional medicine, often using plants and herbs native to their regions. For example, the Zulu people of South Africa, the Yoruba of Nigeria, and the Maasai of Kenya and Tanzania use herbal treatments for various ailments. In Ghana, traditional healers are officially recognized and integrated into the healthcare system, while in Ethiopia, herbal medicine remains widely practiced alongside conventional treatment.
One of the participating healers, Ciprian Lunyerere, acknowledged the importance of the training. “Now I know there are diseases we can treat, and there are those we cannot. If I see Marburg symptoms, I will report immediately,” he said.
Beyond training, Africa CDC is developing educational booklets for healers, detailing MVD symptoms, reporting procedures, and safety measures. Many healers have also requested additional resources such as protective gear and thermometers to help prevent disease transmission.
Health officials emphasize that the collaboration between traditional and modern medicine should extend beyond emergency outbreaks. Strengthening long-term cooperation can enhance disease prevention and response, ensuring that communities remain vigilant and informed.