Ghana seeks to integrate traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare

Ghana’s Deputy Minister for Health, Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has announced government plans to integrate scientifically validated traditional medicine into the nation’s mainstream healthcare system. During a visit to the Center of Awareness (COA) Research and Manufacturing Company in the Central Region, the Deputy Minister emphasized that the sector could improve healthcare access and delivery.

Drawing parallels to China’s model of complementary medicine, Ayensu-Danquah noted that integration should be guided by research, quality assurance, and strict regulation to ensure patient safety. The government aims to utilize the Free Primary Healthcare programme to explore how traditional medicine can assist in the prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases, specifically hypertension and diabetes.

Prof. (HC) Samuel Ato Duncan, CEO of COA Manufacturing Company, welcomed the initiative and highlighted ongoing research into the potential benefits of herbal products regarding cancer and viral diseases. The Ministry of Health intends to continue collaborating with stakeholders to strengthen manufacturing standards and regulatory frameworks within the traditional medicine sector.