African Childhood and Youth Studies (Interdisciplinary - | 14 March 2004
Traditional Medicine in Contemporary Botswana's Healthcare Systems: An Analytical Survey Study
C, h, o, l, M, o, l, e, k, w, a, ,, M, a, k, w, e, r, e, k, w, e, K, h, a, m, a, ,, S, i, m, e, o, n, B, o, k, o, n, y, i, ,, D, u, m, e, t, l, o, D, i, k, g, o, s, i
Abstract
Traditional medicine plays a significant role in healthcare systems across Africa, including Botswana, where it often coexists with modern health services. A structured survey was conducted among a representative sample of healthcare providers and patients in urban and rural areas to assess the use and perceived effectiveness of traditional medicine alongside modern healthcare. The survey revealed that approximately 75% of respondents used traditional medicine at least once a month, highlighting its significant role in daily healthcare practices. Traditional medicine is deeply embedded within Botswana's healthcare landscape, offering complementary services to formal health systems and addressing specific community needs effectively. Efforts should be made to strengthen the integration of traditional medicine into national healthcare policies and training programmes to ensure its sustainability and effectiveness. Traditional Medicine, Healthcare Systems, Botswana, African Studies