African Traditional Medicine Day is observed worldwide every August 31, commemorating the adoption of the Regional Strategy on Promoting the Role of Traditional Medicine in Health Systems by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2000. Established in 2003, this day honors the significance of traditional medicine for the African population and advocates for its integration into healthcare systems. Traditional African medicine encompasses various disciplines, primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa, combining indigenous herbalism and African spirituality. About 80% of the population in Africa relies on traditional medicine for basic health needs, particularly in rural areas where it is often the only accessible and affordable healthcare service. The observance encourages African governments to support research into traditional remedies and integrate traditional medicine into national health systems. Since its inception, the number of African countries developing national traditional medicine policies has increased significantly, reflecting a growing commitment to regulating and incorporating traditional practices into healthcare frameworks.
