Across the continent, traditional medicine continues to play a vital role in healthcare, often serving as the first point of care for millions, especially in rural and underserved communities. As African countries face growing pressure from health‑worker shortages, rising costs and unequal access to services, there is increasing interest in how traditional medicine can be safely and effectively integrated into formal health systems.

The issue is now taking centre stage at the World Health Summit,  WHO Regional Meeting in Nairobi, where experts are exploring how traditional medicine could improve access, affordability and the overall delivery of primary healthcare, while ensuring safety, quality and accountability.

Mpho Sithole spoke to Dr Hiba Boujnah, Head of Global Strategy and Partnerships and WHO Collaborating Centre Coordinator at the Charité Competence Centre for Traditional and Integrative Medicine (CCCTIM) in Berlin.