Author: Peter Martey Agbeko
On a bright September morning in Accra, the Ministry of Health auditorium buzzed with anticipation. Herbalists, regulators, academics, and government officials—over 100 participants from 28 associations—came together for one mission: to redefine traditional medicine in Ghana.
For millions of Ghanaians, traditional medicine is not an alternative; it is the first line of care. Yet, despite its widespread use, the sector has been plagued by quackery, misinformation, and inconsistent standards.
The Traditional Medicine Practice Council (TMPC) is working to change that.
“Traditional medicine is not only about heritage—it is about health, jobs, exports, and cultural pride,” said Board Chair, Prof. Samuel Ato Duncan. He called for harmonised regulation, stronger research, and improved visibility in global markets.
The Minister of Health was equally emphatic:
“TAM has a role in our 24-hour economy. We want practitioners to unite, cultivate medicinal plants, and ensure safe, evidence-based practices.”
A Sector with Untapped Potential
•€70% of Ghanaians rely on traditional medicine.
•€The sector generated GHC 1.7 billion in 2023.
•€Globally, the industry is worth $200 billion.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has also urged Africa to leverage herbal medicine, while Ghana’s Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, recently called for intensified university research into the field.
The Human Story
In rural communities, herbalists remain lifelines for patients with no access to modern clinics. In cities, integrative health centers are blending herbal and orthodox treatments. For people battling chronic illnesses, TAM often provides comfort where other treatments fail.
But the risks are real. Fake online practitioners, contaminated products, and unlicensed operators endanger lives. TMPC Acting Registrar Dr. (MH) Yakubu Tobor Yusuf acknowledged these challenges, outlining new digital systems, curriculum reforms, and regulatory partnerships to restore trust.
Pull Quote
“This is not just about herbs. It’s about healing a nation—safely, professionally, and proudly.” – Stakeholder at the TMPC meeting
Looking Ahead
The meeting ended with clear resolutions: tighter regulation, more education, and a stronger partnership with government. The vision is bold—to make Ghana a centre of excellence for integrative health and wellness tourism in West Africa.
As participants posed for a group photograph, one truth was evident: traditional medicine is no longer a marginal practice. With professionalism and investment, it is set to become a pillar of Ghana’s health and economic future.
