The Emancipation of Mozambican Traditional Medicine: from its Colonial Criminalization to its Integration in the Ministry of Health

Abstract

Mozambican traditional medicine has been historically marginalized and criminalized during the colonial period. Such a situation persisted during the post-independence period through structural violence, even though it is the main form of healthcare available to the majority of the population. This discussion presents a historical and political analysis of traditional medicine in Mozambique, from its criminalization to its progressive integration into the National Health System (SNS). It is based on documentary sources, specialized literature, and oral interactions on health policies and medical anthropology. It analyzes the legal framework, political and social legitimization, and the implicit commitments for the selective institutional adoption of certain practices. Mozambique is a developing country with considerably low healthcare coverage. Traditional healers draw on their rich tropical biodiversity to provide healthcare to most of the population. However, they still face challenges regarding their acceptance as part of the SNS. There has been a transition from the colonial ban to the creation of the Department of Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DMTA) in the Ministry of Health (MISAU), including initiatives to regulate the practice and the recognition of the Mozambican Association of Traditional Healers (AMETRAMO) and other formal organization, resulting in a better environment for traditional medicine. All events reveal persistent challenges to overcome the colonial legacy and limitations in selective integration, mainly excluding spiritual elements. There is a need for an inclusive, fair, and sustained dialogue as a prerequisite for the genuine emancipation of traditional medicine in Mozambique.

Keywords

• Traditional medicine
• Emancipation
• Colonialism
• Health policies
• Mozambique