Though some people doubt its efficiency, many depend on traditional medicine for diverse reasons.

The celebration of the 8th African Traditional Medicine Day was commemorated recently in the South West Region with a lot of pageantry. The event took place at "Dr Fru’s Garden of Eden" around the Chariot Hotel near Muea. During the occasion, CT discovered that about 80% of South Westerners depend on traditional medicine for cure. Researchers revealed that many people rely on it because traditional medicine is cheap and affordable than conventional medicine. Some people sampled told CT that before undergoing any medical check up in hospitals, they must spend at least FCFA 1000 for consultation fees. “This same amount can buy traditional medicinal drugs that can cure you,” says Enjema Lyonga.

She says she believes in traditional medicine though it has its short comings. She confirmed using some traditional medicines when she had headache. But she does not know the name of what she took. She explains that she has equally used herbs commonly called “Masepo” for her son when he had a running stomach. “It was good. I think traditional medicine helps in its own way. That is why I have planted some herbs in my compound and I eat a lot of spices,” she told CT. However, she is worried because some traditional doctors do not have “measuring instruments” and as such there’s the danger of over dosage to patients.

Talking to CT, people did not believe that one traditional healer can cure more than one disease. They are worried why till date there’s no cure for HIV/AIDS either from traditional healers or modern medical practitioners. A youth disclosed that he took a concoction from a traditional healer in a village called Kwakwa (near Kumba) and it did not cure him.

Ekone Juletta, a student, says she does not believe in traditional medicine because “Jesus is the only Healer”. She explains: “I consider herbs, spices and ‘Kanda Sticks’ used to make traditional medicines as dirt. It is better to use conventional medicine which is well treated and preserved.”

These views notwithstanding, the South West is home to some prominent traditional healers such as Dr. Fru, Dr. Tawakalitu, Dr. Right Part, Dr. Dewah and a host of others. They specialize in herbs, spices and backs of trees (Kanda Stick) to help people, especially those who cannot afford exorbitant hospital bills.