The launch of the Western Cape's National Reference Centre for African Traditional Medicines

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" colspan=2 height=90 BGCOLOR="#006699" TEXT="#080000" background="04afd5a3.jpg"> <bR> <div> <B>The Botanical Source</B></div> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" width=210 BGCOLOR="#FFCC66" TEXT="#080000" background="04bd2063.jpg"> <div> <A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="The Botanical Source"><U><B><IMG SRC="107b8d140.png" border=0 width="141" height="20" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.thebotanicalsource.com/shop" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.thebotanicalsource.com/shop"><U><IMG SRC="11958d140.png" border=0 width="141" height="20" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id22.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="A wide range of indigenous seeds from Af"><U><IMG SRC="11948d140.png" border=0 width="141" height="20" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.thebotanicalsource.com/shop/index.php?cPath=28&osCsid=5d55fa2bee3df7b388a151625a1e9916" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.thebotanicalsource.com/shop/i"><U><IMG SRC="11938d140.png" border=0 width="141" height="20" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id28.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Articles about African indigenous healin"><U><IMG SRC="10828d140.png" border=0 width="141" height="20" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id20.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Contact Us"><U><IMG SRC="11928d140.png" border=0 width="141" height="20" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id23.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Photo Gallery"><U><IMG SRC="11918d140.png" border=0 width="141" height="20" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> <div>   <script type="text/javascript" src="http://edge.quantserve.com/quant.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript">_qacct="p-41ZhKYiACxjoQ";quantserve();</script> <noscript> <a href="http://www.quantcast.com/p-41ZhKYiACxjoQ" target="_blank"><img src="http://pixel.quantserve.com/pixel/p-41ZhKYiACxjoQ.gif" style="display: none;" border="0" height="1" width="1" alt="Quantcast"/></a> </noscript>   </div> <div>  <script type="text/javascript"> var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); </script> <script type="text/javascript"> var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-3741917-2"); pageTracker._initData(); pageTracker._trackPageview(); </script>  </div> </td> <td valign="top" height=390 BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000" background="04c03043.jpg"> <div> <B>The launch of the Western Cape's National Reference Centre for African Traditional Medicines</B></div> <div> <B>____________________________________________________________</B></div> <bR> <div> Keynote address by Health Minister, Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, at the launch of the Western Cape's National Reference Centre for African Traditional Medicines, Medical Research Council</div> <div> 15 February 2004 </div> <bR> <div> Programme Director</div> <div> Distinguished guests</div> <div> Ladies and gentlemen. </div> <bR> <div> It is a great honour and privilege to be part of this momentous occasion that marks an important epoch in the history of traditional medicine in this country. Today's provincial launch of the National Reference Centre for African Traditional Medicines (NRCATM) comes hot on the heels of the successful national launch of the NRCATM, which took place amid huge acclaim in Pretoria at the CSIR Conference Centre on 31 August last year. </div> <bR> <div> The national launch of the NRCATM in Pretoria coincided with the inauguration of the African Traditional Medicine Day by the World Health Organisation (WHO) at the same event. We decided that after the national launch we would embark on a series of provincial launches. The aim of the provincial launches was to reach out to all stakeholders throughout the country. This further goes on to demonstrate our determination as the Department of Health and the broader Government to recognise the value and potential of traditional medicine. </div> <bR> <div> Our primary objective is to establish a burgeoning centre of excellence in the form of NRCATM that advances the contribution of African traditional medicines in a way that addresses the health and economic needs of this country and the continent. It is our belief that today's events will mark yet another milestone in the history of traditional medicine as we celebrate a new dawn and a new beginning. It is worth noting that this event comes also at an opportune time when this nation gears itself up for the celebration of our decade of freedom and democracy. </div> <bR> <div> As we launch the NRCATM today, we do so fully aware of the fact that the use and promotion of traditional medicines is not unique to South Africa and the African continent. Traditional medicines have a long history of use in other countries including India, China, and Thailand. Some countries have a long history and rich heritage of traditional medicine use and practice and have gone further to develop appropriate and practical regulatory framework for traditional medicine. The experiences of these countries, and the efforts of the WHO regionally and globally, continue to inform and guide the South African regulatory initiatives. It is important to indicate that we shall continue to draw strength and courage from these nations as we put our own systems in place and make our indelible mark on the sands of history. </div> <bR> <div> The current estimates suggest that over 60% of the world's populations rely on traditional medicines for their health care needs. Research also indicates that, in many developing countries, a large proportion of the population relies heavily on traditional practitioners and medicinal plants to meet primary health care needs. Although modern medicine may be available in these countries, traditional medicines have often maintained popularity for historical and cultural reasons. It is also important to note that traditional medicines also continue to play a significant role in the treatment and management of life-threatening diseases. In our country, it has been estimated that up to 80% of the population uses traditional medicines. </div> <bR> <div> From the policy perspective, a number of initiatives have already been taken in this country to deal with the unique situation of African traditional medicines. The national Department of Health has demonstrated tremendous commitment with respect to African traditional medicines by developing the National Drug Policy of 1996. The Policy recognises the potential role and benefits of African traditional medicines in the National Health System. It is aimed at investigating the use of effective and safe traditional medicines at primary level. The establishment of NRCATM evolves from the process of the National Drug Policy development and implementation for purposes of gathering, harnessing and synthesising information to promote, regulate and register African traditional medicines of plant origin. The policy development is a result of a need within the Department of Health to have a focal point on African traditional medicines, to develop a regulatory framework appropriate for African traditional medicines. </div> <bR> <div> The NRCATM has been established as a virtual centre, a centre "without walls" that will be accessible to all stakeholders in the traditional medicines sector; including traditional health practitioners, government departments, regulatory authorities, scientists, medical professionals, conservation authorities, communities and the business sector. The NRCATM aims to operate as a key centre of excellence not for South Africa and the region but for the whole continent. It is of utmost importance that resources are fully mobilised and made available for the growth and success of this centre. </div> <bR> <div> We hope that with the partnership that we have with leading research councils, traditional health practitioners, universities and other stakeholders, key objectives of the centre will be realised. It is my sincere hope that all parties and partners will work together as a team to ensure that the centre takes hold and continues to give hope to millions of people who are in need of affordable health care. </div> <bR> <div> There is no doubt that local production of traditional medicinal products of proven quality and efficacy may present an affordable alternative to some of the expensive, imported synthetic drugs. The NRCATM is an important venture that must exist and be sustained for centuries to come to benefit future generations. And we shall make it a point that we continue to safeguard the ideals of this project so that it retains the profile and credibility it deserves. The centre must become a beacon of hope to the masses of our people who stand to benefit from this venture. It is the duty of all us here today to relentlessly defend this venture for future generations. For the time in our history, the potential of traditional medicines is being recognised and traditional medicines take their rightful place in our National Health System. </div> <bR> <div> It is clear that the potential of traditional medicines cannot be effectively harnessed without the concurrent recognition of traditional health practitioners and their communities who are the actual custodians of the indigenous knowledge. This country boasts well over 200 000 traditional health practitioners. We cannot ignore their immense contribution in the primary health care over centuries. Traditional health practitioners are the first health care providers to be consulted in up to 80% of cases, especially in rural areas. </div> <bR> <div> It is on this score that the status and profile of traditional health practitioners has to be raised and strengthened for the benefit of all. It is unfortunate that we often lose sight of the continuing service that is offered by this sector, which remains largely informal and marginalized in most parts of the world. It is also regrettable that the socio-political history of this country is such that there has been little contact between traditional health practitioners and formal medical practice, and this has to change, even if it means changing mindsets. Already we are beginning see collaboration between the two paradigms in many areas in an attempt to turn the tide on some of the country's health challenges. </div> <bR> <div> In the light of current health challenges the potential from medicinal plants also need to be explored. Of course, this has to be done in a manner that is sustainable and in harmony with nature and environment. It is important that in our pursuit for discoveries and breakthroughs, we do not endanger our species, in a way that we adversely affect the sustainable supply of medicinal plant for future generations. It is heartening to note that South Africa is blessed with a rich heritage of medicinal plants that through sustained research and development could offer a huge solution to some of the common health problems that the world continues to grapple with as we are gathered here today. </div> <bR> <div> It is also important that we recognise the economic spin-offs that come with this venture. Besides the undisputable health benefits, the centre offers huge potential for trade promotion, job creation and poverty alleviation. The outputs of the centre will have to be optimised in favour of economic development. The natural resources of this country constitute a strategic national asset, which is essential for our economic well-being. The cultivation and propagation of medicinal plants provides opportunities establishing agro-processing businesses, particularly for rural communities who continue to be on the margins of the mainstream economy. It is our conviction that with the scientific support and application of sound business principles, a wider potential for trade in medicinal plants will be created. </div> <bR> <div> The NRCATM will draw on multi-disciplinary expertise throughout South Africa to achieve and realise the following specific outcomes for the future benefit of the country and the region. </div> <bR> <div> Establishment of an information system on African traditional medicines </div> <div> Promotion of research and development focused on standardisation and authentication of products based on medicinal plants </div> <div> Identification of education and training needs of traditional medicine in South Africa </div> <div> Protection of indigenous knowledge and trade promotion through patents and intellectual property rights </div> <div> Promoting scientific research into life-threatening, chronic and common diseases that are prevalent in the region </div> <div> Establishment of agro-processing businesses based on propagation, cultivation and processing of medicinal plants. </div> <div> The structure of the National Reference Centre for African Traditional Medicines will comprise three key equal partners i.e. the Department of Health, the Medical Research Council and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research. The two science councils have played an important role in traditional medicine research through the Indigenous Knowledge Systems Health Unit and the Bio-Prospecting Programme respectively. It is important they continue, with the support of all stakeholders, to contribute to the scientific advancement of this rich heritage of our herbal knowledge. The need for scientific validation and production of high quality, safe medicines based on African traditional medicines cannot be overemphasised. The time is now to unleash the potential of our vast arsenal of indigenous knowledge systems. That remains our clarion call to the partnership and the stakeholders. </div> <bR> <div> To make sure that the NRCATM takes off, the Department of Health together with all the partners will, as a matter of urgency, </div> <bR> <div> develop and implement an operational plan for the successful realisation of the objectives of the centre as clearly set out, </div> <div> address strategic issues that affect the NRCATM, </div> <div> establish networks and collaboration with stakeholders in traditional medicines, </div> <div> ensure that outputs of the NRCATM are optimised in favour of promoting trade, alleviating poverty and creating jobs. </div> <div> The challenges for the realisation of the objectives of NRCATM are immense, but can be overcome by establishing networks and collaboration with all stakeholders in traditional medicines. It is our conviction that this nation shall, like other nations of the world, rise above this challenge and better the lives of the ordinary people through economic upliftment and improved access to affordable healthcare. </div> <bR> <div> We therefore commit ourselves to promote traditional medicines without any equivocation. This is a cause that we hold dear. The establishment of NRCATM is an important cause to celebrate, and will no doubt go down in history as one of the most important milestones of our time. </div> <bR> <div> In conclusion, it is absolutely important that we reiterate in unequivocal terms our commitment and determination, as the department and partners including all stakeholders, to mobilise resources from all quarters to ensure that traditional medicines and the practice thereof enjoy, for the first time in our history, the full recognition and support they have always deserved. </div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>____________________________________________________________</B></div> <bR> <div> <B>  Subscribe to The Botanical Source free newsletter:<br><br> <form action="http://freeautobot.com/cgi-bin/autores/autores.cgi" target="_blank"> <input type=hidden name="do" value="add_lead_external"> <input type=hidden name="Username" value="botanical"> <input type=hidden name="Stop_Status" value="Active"> <input type=hidden name="Cycle_Number" value="0"> <input type=hidden name="Success_URL" value="http://www.thebotanicalsource.com/id310.htm"> <input type=hidden name="Failure_URL" value="http://www.thebotanicalsource.com/id309.htm"> <input type=hidden name="Notes" value="Added from opt-in form"> Email : <input type=text name="Email" value=""><br> <input type=submit value="Submit"> </form>   </B></div> <div> <B>[ Opens a new window. ]</B></div> <bR> <div> <B><U>Privacy Policy</U></B><FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" ><B> :</B></FONT></div> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700a000000000.png" HEIGHT="11" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">We do not publish or share your email address with anyone.</B></div> <div> <B>____________________________________________________________</B></div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="id21.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="The Botanical Source"><U><B>Return to Herbal Products.</B></U></A></div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="id28.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Articles about African indigenous healin"><U><B>Return to Articles.</B></U></A></div> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>