ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the role of traditional medicine in increasing access to universal HIV/AIDS prevention programs, treatment, care, and support through its integration into mainstream health systems. It outlines some of the reasons why traditional medicine must be integrated into health systems in the African region, and describes the integration that has already taken place. The chapter argues that traditional medicine practice can no longer be left behind by science. The freedom of choice for individuals to select their treatment modality and the individual's right according to Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees the right to be provided with all the necessary information to enable choices. The establishment of rules governing traditional medicine provides a framework for developing the practice while ensuring safety measures are respected. Burundi, Cameroon, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Nigeria, and Tanzania have established national research institutes to deal specifically with traditional medicine.
