Tanzania scientists explore traditional medicine strategies
Government convenes practitioners, researchers, and investors to develop a national framework for local medicines.
Tanzanian scientists, health professionals, and traditional medicine practitioners met in Dar es Salaam on November 9, 2026, to discuss advancing local remedies. The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology organized the conference to explore how science and research can strengthen traditional medicine.
Deputy Minister Wanu Hafidh Ameir stated that the meeting aims to create a national framework for identifying, researching, and commercializing local medicines and medical devices. She highlighted challenges such as inadequate knowledge documentation and insufficient research on safety and efficacy, hindering the exploitation of Tanzania's abundant plant resources.
The government seeks to transform traditional medicine research findings into innovations and products that improve healthcare, create jobs, and reduce reliance on imported goods. The conference theme focuses on harnessing innovation, research, and indigenous knowledge for developing traditional medicine and health products.