13 February 2006
It is disturbing to note that the Democratic Alliance continues to perpetuate racist stereotypes that African traditional medicines are inferior products manufactured by wizards.
DA health spokesperson, Dianne Kohler Barnard's comment in a statement released today, that ubhejane is a "fake AIDS cure" manufactured by "a backyard chemist", demonstrate the extent to which the organisation (DA) undermines African traditional practices.
The Ministry of Health is determined to defend and promote indigenous knowledge system because we believe that traditional medicines and traditional health practitioners have an important role to play in the health system of the country.
African traditional medicine has continued to provide health relief to millions of Africans throughout the continent despite sustained efforts to undermine its credibility.
We will continue to support the research and development of traditional medicine and promote the consumption of food products that assist in strengthening the immune system by providing necessary micronutrients.
Sibani Mngadi
Spokesperson for the Minister of Health
0827720161