This marks a historic turning point for public health in Burkina Faso, particularly in the promotion of local resources. FENATRAB, the National Federation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners, has just reached a decisive milestone: the official approval of 53 products derived from traditional pharmacopoeia.
In Burkina Faso, more than 80% of the population relies on traditional pharmacopoeia. Long criticized for uncertain dosages, it is now undergoing a scientific transformation. FENATRAB now brings together more than 33,000 practitioners, with the mission of preserving biodiversity and ensuring patient safety. In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, it encourages its members to move out of the informal sector and integrate into the modern healthcare system.
We work closely with health professionals. In emergency cases, we are called upon, especially for chronic diseases such as cancer and certain illnesses that modern medicine has not been able to treat.
Margre Naaba SANEM, President of National Federation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners
Malaria, stomach aches, hypertension, or diabetes, today, 53 remedies derived from Burkinabè soil are now officially listed in the national registry. In August 2024, the Federation inaugurated a 3-hectare grove located in the green belt of Ouagadougou. This site is intended to become a sanctuary for preserving medicinal species threatened with extinction. This vision is supported by the President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who has instructed the creation of a medicinal grove in each of the country’s 45 provinces, with the aim of reducing dependence on imported products by locally cultivating the plants needed for certified remedies.
In every council of Burkina Faso, there are associations of traditional practitioners. These associations are connected to health districts. Whenever there are minor issues or emergencies, the health district contacts the local association of traditional practitioners so they can meet and find solutions to the cases.
Lafi NAABA, Member of National Federation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners
This grove will not only secure the supply of raw materials but also ensure that the plants used for the 53 already approved products come from controlled and sustainable cultivation. Burkina Faso is thus establishing itself as a leader in the promotion of African traditional pharmacopoeia.
