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Global summit positions traditional medicine as a strategic pillar for health equity, investment, and innovation — with Nigeria urged to seize leadership in Africa’s transition.
Lagos — With half of the world’s population still lacking access to essential health services, the World Health Organisation (WHO) is convening its second Global Traditional Medicine Summit in New Delhi from December 17–19. The move, described as timely and apt, signals a historic shift toward integrating traditional medicine into mainstream health systems worldwide.
Why It’s a Big Deal for Africa
Africa, and Nigeria in particular, remains heavily dependent on imported orthodox medicines, leaving millions vulnerable to supply shocks, rising costs, and limited access.
The summit offers a pathway to reduce this reliance by elevating traditional medicine as a culturally rooted, affordable, and accessible alternative.
For communities grappling with chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and inequities in care, traditional medicine provides holistic solutions that align with local practices and realities. This is not just about health — it is about sovereignty, resilience, and equity.
Key Announcements from WHO
WHO has already laid the foundation for this transformation. Earlier this year, all member states adopted the Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034, which sets out a framework for evidence, regulation, and integration. The organisation reports that 90 per cent of its member states already use traditional medicine, with between 40 and 90 per cent of their populations relying on it.
To support this, WHO has launched a Global Traditional Medicine Library, housing more than 1.6 million scientific publications and records, alongside a Global Research Roadmap to prioritise investment and innovation.
Scientists also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in decoding the complex structures of herbal compounds, echoing breakthroughs such as artemisinin in the treatment of malaria. These initiatives underscore WHO’s commitment to advancing science while honouring cultural heritage.
Nigeria’s Stakes and Expectations
For Nigeria, the stakes could not be higher. The country spends billions annually importing drugs, a dependency that undermines resilience and drains resources. Harnessing traditional medicine could cut costs, strengthen local industries, and empower practitioners.
Integrating traditional medicine into health systems is expected to spur research, create industries, and generate jobs, while also expanding access to affordable care.
The Federal Government is expected to play a decisive role. Beyond investing in research and regulation to ensure safety and efficacy, authorities must support universities and research centres in documenting indigenous knowledge.
Collaboration with WHO to align Nigeria’s health policies with the global roadmap is critical, as is launching awareness campaigns to build public trust in evidence‑based traditional medicine. This is a moment for Nigeria to move beyond rhetoric and seize the opportunity to lead Africa in health innovation.
Why This Summit Is Apt
Global demand for holistic, personalised care is rising, while health inequities persist across Africa. The summit arrives at a critical juncture, offering a chance to bridge science and culture and ensure traditional medicine is safe, standardised, and globally recognised.
It also presents an opportunity to unlock billions in investment while preserving indigenous heritage. For Africa, this is more than a health initiative — it is a chance to redefine its place in global health leadership.
Closing Note
The WHO summit is more than a conference; it is a turning point for Africa’s future in health.
For Nigeria, the challenge is clear: move decisively, invest boldly, and position traditional medicine not only as a cultural asset but as a strategic pillar of national healthcare. The world is watching, and the time to act is now.
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To improve development of stable human communities such as rural and urban