DA undermines indigenous knowledge
13 February 2006 

It is disturbing to note that the Democratic Alliance (DA) 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. 

Enquiries:
Sibani Mngadi
Spokesperson for the Minister of Health
Cell: 082 772 0161 

Issued by: Department of Health
13 February 2006