In the heart of Kenya, the Confucius Institute at Egerton University, in collaboration with Nanjing Agricultural University, China, and the Botanic Garden at Egerton University, has been nurturing a unique partnership focused on traditional medicine and food security.
This collaborative effort aims to bridge the gap between Traditional Medical Practitioners (TMPs) in Kenya and the rich tradition of herbal medicine in China. Over the years, these institutions have sponsored workshops and training sessions to empower local herbalists and small-holder farmers in Kenya.
The beneficiaries of this transformative course were an eclectic group of Traditional Medical Practitioners (TMPs) hailing from various Kenyan counties. Transzoia, Uasin Gishu, Baringo, Embu, and Nakuru were all represented, reflecting the diverse regions of Kenya. The Nakuru county department of culture also made its presence felt, underlining the cultural and community significance of this initiative.
The official opening was a significant moment, presided over by the Director of Research, who was unable to attend in person but was well represented by Prof. Matasyoh. The Director's absence did not diminish the importance of the event, as Prof. Matasyoh eloquently conveyed the Director's message. He emphasized the importance of commercializing traditional medicine by urging herbalists to cultivate products that have undergone rigorous laboratory analysis, from proper harvesting to drying and packaging.
The goal was to ensure that herbal medicine products would gain recognition within the medical field, much like they have in Madagascar.
A heartfelt moment of silence was observed in memory of the late Professor S. T. Kariuki, highlighting the respect and honor bestowed upon those who have contributed to the field of traditional medicine. Prof. Matasyoh also urged the participants to advocate for the establishment of treatment centers recognizing herbal medicine in county hospitals, emphasizing the need for government support in this endeavor.
The course unfolded with a series of enlightening presentations by experts in their respective fields. Mr. Peter Amwoga delivered a presentation on the conservation of medicinal plants, highlighting the importance of herbal medicine in global healthcare. He discussed the difference between in-situ and ex-situ conservation and the pressures facing medicinal plants, such as overharvesting and construction activities.
Techniques for sustainable harvesting and replanting were also discussed to counter the negative effects of improper conservation.
Dr. Liu Gaojuing, from Egerton University, provided a detailed account of how traditional medicine is handled in China, from harvesting and transportation to packaging and sale by pharmacists. He emphasized the advanced research and training facilities available in China for traditional medicine.
Professor Matasyoh then shared insights into the chemical analysis of traditional medicine, reinforcing the importance of proper drying methods and introducing the concept of histopathology using mice as an example. This presentation shed light on the rigorous scientific aspects of traditional medicine.
Dr. Otachi's presentation delved into the ethical considerations for herbalists, emphasizing patient privacy, labeling of herbal products with expiry dates, prioritizing patient health over profit, and maintaining openness with patients. This emphasized the importance of maintaining trust and transparency in traditional medical practices.
Dr. Muia followed with a presentation on quality assurance practices for traditional medicine. He encouraged herbalists to maintain meticulous records, adhere to WHO standards, and minimize contamination throughout the process, from harvesting to packaging. Quality assurance was shown to be critical for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of herbal products.
The Nakuru county chief officer of culture guided herbalists through the registration process with the department of culture, shedding light on the bureaucratic aspects of their practice.
In the way forward, participants requested further collaboration with Egerton University and government institutions to enable product analysis, leading to certification from the county government. This would enhance the credibility of herbal medicine in Kenya, providing a tangible path forward for the herbalists.
Participants appreciated the short course on natural products and food security. It was evident that these collaborative efforts between Kenya and China were nurturing the growth of traditional medicine and herbal practices.
"They left the training ready to improve their practices and contribute to the enhancement of natural products and food security in their communities," said Prof Joshua Ogweno, Director Confucius Institute, Egerton University, a Crops Science specialist.
Through such partnership between these institutions, a beacon of hope for the sustainable future of traditional medicine in Kenya remains rooted.
