On the occasion of the 24thᵉIn preparation for the African Traditional Medicine Day, celebrated on August 31, 2026, stakeholders in the sector met on August 28 at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Yaoundé I to reflect on the challenges of research, standardization and approval of improved traditional medicines.
Since the adoption of Law No. 2024/018 of December 23, 2024, traditional medicine has been officially recognized as a component of the national health system in Cameroon. This legal framework reinforces the importance of a sector in high demand, particularly in rural areas where, according to Temfack Vopé Ronyl, Permanent Secretary for Health Promotion and the Valorization of Traditional Medicine, 80% of the population uses it. The challenge now is to consolidate research, development, and oversight of products derived from traditional medicine. It is within this context that researchers, healthcare professionals, and traditional healers gathered at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Yaoundé I to discuss the theme: « Reflections on Research and Development Efforts in Traditional Medicine for the Implementation of Universal Health Coverage in the Sub-Region. » This meeting was organized by the Network of Parliamentarians for Health Promotion and the Valorization of Traditional Medicine (REPPROSAN), in collaboration with the Regional Health Delegation. The dean of the faculty, Professor Esther Juliette Ngo Um, wife of Meka, allowed these exchanges to take place within her institution, in the presence of Professor Christian SONGUE, representative of the delegate of Public Health, and Dr. Guidium Peliegho, president of the traditional healers of the Central region.
Science at the service of Cameroonian plants
The visit took participants to the laboratories dedicated to research in traditional medicine and pharmacotoxicology, led by Professor Charles FOKUNANG. The researchers presented the journey of a medicinal plant before its potential transformation into a health product, focusing on three key requirements: efficacy, safety, and quality. The research begins with the precise identification of the plant and the part used, followed by the analysis of its composition to identify its active
ingredients and determine their dosage. However, the traditional use of a plant is not sufficient to establish its efficacy. Pharmacological studies are necessary to scientifically verify its therapeutic action. Toxicology then allows for the evaluation of its safety through various studies. Researchers monitor certain biological parameters, such as ALT and AST, considered indicators of liver function, as well as creatinine and urea for kidney function. The condition of the organs is also verified through macroscopic and histological examinations. The quality of the product is also controlled. The analyses specifically look for microbiological contamination, heavy metals, and pesticide residues. Harvesting, preparation, storage, and packaging conditions are carefully controlled to guarantee a product with a consistent and traceable composition. Molecular research, using PCR, cloning, and genetic sequencing, also allows for the study of plant diversity and the identification of molecules of interest. Several Cameroonian species are currently being researched, including Enantia chlorantha for liver ailments, Prunus africana for prostate problems, Artemisia annua for its antimalarial properties, and Aspilia africana for wound healing. Another illustration of the potential of Cameroonian biodiversity is Ancistrocladus korupensis, a liana discovered in Korup National Park, research on which has identified several compounds of pharmacological interest, including michellamine B. Thus, from the identification of the plant to the evaluation of its properties, scientific research makes it possible to progressively transform traditional knowledge into a health product whose efficacy, safety and quality can be evaluated.
Medicines manufactured according to standards
TADIOFO KENGNI Arsène, an expert in the development of herbal medicines, then presented Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). These practices ensure that traditional medicines are manufactured and controlled consistently. They aim, in particular, to prevent contamination, labeling and packaging errors, and to ensure traceability. Their implementation is based on five elements: qualified personnel, suitable premises, qualified and maintained equipment, complete documentation, and quality control from raw materials to the finished product, through to storage and distribution.
Protecting innovation and traditional knowledge
DONFAGSITELI TCHINDA Néhémie, a rights protection consultant, presented the patent for improved traditional medicines (ITMs). At the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI), the patent grants 20 years of protection, subject to meeting the criteria of novelty, inventive step, and industrial application. This
protection can cover the product itself, its manufacturing process, or a new use. It also contributes to combating biopiracy, protecting traditional knowledge, and promoting local research and industrialization.
From research to marketing authorization
The final step is approval. This topic was addressed by Dr. Edmond Elisée Tsafack. Approval allows the pharmaceutical regulatory authority to grant a Marketing Authorization (MA) after evaluating the product. Medicines derived from traditional therapeutic practices are divided into four categories; categories 2, 3, and 4 are subject to approval, unlike category 1, which corresponds to the raw plant. The evaluation focuses on quality, safety, efficacy, and the benefit-risk balance. MA approval can also facilitate the integration of these medicines into the healthcare system, particularly with a view to Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
At the end of the workshop, the president of the traditional healers of the Central region, Dr. Guidium Peliegho, pledged to strengthen compliance with standards, improve the preparation and preservation of traditional medicines, encourage research and collaboration with researchers and contribute to the protection of traditional knowledge.
These commitments will be further celebrated on August 31, 2026. The program includes a roundtable discussion on research and development efforts in traditional medicine to support the implementation of universal health coverage in the sub-region, followed by the official ceremony and a press conference. The day will conclude with visits to exhibition booths and various activities, highlighting the initiatives of researchers and traditional practitioners working towards better regulation and greater integration of traditional medicine into the healthcare system.
Interview : « If we want traditional medicine to contribute to universal health coverage, it must be able to offer accessible, but above all safe, effective, and high-quality care and products. »
Where do we stand today in research efforts on traditional medicine in Cameroon?
Progress has been made in the identification and study of medicinal plants, as well as in the development of improved traditional medicines. However, further research is needed to better establish their efficacy, safety, dosage, and quality.
What are the main challenges to overcome in order to accelerate the development of traditional medicine in the sub-region?
This includes strengthening research funding, infrastructure, and equipment; developing the skills of stakeholders; and improving collaboration between traditional healers, researchers, and healthcare professionals. It is also important to better value traditional knowledge and transform it into health products that meet established standards.
How can the results of research in traditional medicine contribute concretely to Universal Health Coverage?
They can make quality, safe, effective, and affordable traditional products available to communities. Traditional medicine can thus contribute to expanding healthcare options, particularly for populations already using it.
Does the 2024 law constitute a real lever to support these research and development efforts, and where are we in its implementation?
The law provides an important framework for better organizing, regulating, and integrating traditional medicine into the national health system. It includes mechanisms for organizing the profession, collaborating with healthcare facilities, and protecting traditional knowledge. The current challenge is to make its provisions fully operational, particularly through implementing regulations,
professional organization, and strengthening research and collaboration mechanisms.
Marie Chantale FAIDA
