The Minister of Science and Innovation, Dr. Monica Musenero has urged Ugandans to embrace herbal medicine as a viable alternative in healthcare. During a stakeholders’ meeting at the Rukararwe Partnership Workshop for Rural Development, Musenero emphasized the importance of changing perceptions about herbal remedies particularly among medical practitioners who often dismiss them as ineffective.

“Many medical professionals still regard herbal medicine as inferior, a perspective rooted in colonial-era education that continues to influence our scientific community,” said Musenero. Her remarks came as researchers showcased their work on a prototype anti-prostate cancer syrup, developed with support from the central government.

Musenero encouraged scientists to seize this opportunity to innovate, reminding attendees that “all drugs started with herbs.” She condemned the categorization of African herbs as “evil” and urged a more open-minded approach to integrating traditional medicine with modern practices.

Annet Katusiime Mugisha, the woman member of parliament for Bushenyi district also praised the researchers’ progress and echoed the call for a shift in mindset. “It’s time we stopped the negative perception of herbal medicine and recognized its potential alongside imported pharmaceuticals,” she urged.

Johnson Bitarabeho, the chairman of the Rukararwe Partnership Workshop for Rural Development shared insights on the organization’s founding principles. Established in 1986, the initiative aims to bring together herbalists to collaborate on research and develop effective herbal remedies for various illnesses. “Our goal has always been to promote the potential of medicinal herbs,” he stated.

As the conversation on herbal medicine continues to evolve, the call for a positive outlook and collaboration between traditional and modern medical practices is more critical than ever for Uganda’s healthcare landscape.