Kaya: The 23rd African Traditional Medicine Day (ATMD) was officially commemorated in Kaya, highlighting the theme of 'Strengthening the evidence base on traditional medicine'. The event, held on October 11, 2025, was chaired by the Prime Minister, represented by Lucien Robert Kargougou, the Minister of Health.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the official ceremony witnessed the presence of several key figures, including the Minister of the Environment, Roger Baro, and Member of Parliament Moussa Sawadogo of the Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT). Also in attendance were the regional representative at the Presidency of Faso, Issa Lagvare, along with central and decentralized administrative authorities, as well as technical and financial partners. Traditional medicine practitioners from across the country also participated in the event.
Minister Lucien Robert Kargougou emphasized that the event aligns with the vision of Captain Ibrahim Traore, who prioritizes the valorization of African knowledge as a fundamental pillar of Burkina Faso's development. He noted the importance of the day's theme, which encourages honoring those involved in traditional medicine and fostering collaboration with conventional medicine practitioners. He stressed the significance of promoting traditional medicine in achieving health autonomy and sovereignty, urging the transmission of knowledge to younger generations to maintain indigenous know-how.
Etienne Sawadogo, president of the Traditional Practitioners of the Koulse region, expressed gratitude to the authorities for their commitment to promoting traditional medicine. Meanwhile, Naaba Tisse, chief of the canton of Louda, representing the king of Boussouma, called for substantial technological support to enhance the production capacities of traditional practitioners.
The 23rd ATMD, commemorated alongside the 13th National Week of Alternative Traditional Medicine, served as a platform to acknowledge the contributions of traditional medicine practitioners. Five certificates of recognition and five medals of the Order of Merit for Health and Social Action, with the Health clasp, were awarded to outstanding practitioners.
A guided tour of exhibition and sales stands allowed attending authorities to appreciate the skills and knowledge of those involved in traditional medicine.