Mwinyi lauded for advancing traditional medicine

The Traditional Medicine and Environmental Protection Organisation (TRAMEPRO) has commended the late Tanzanian President Ali Hassan Mwinyi for his contributions to promoting traditional medicine during his leadership. Speaking to *Daily News*, TRAMEPRO Secretary General Boniventura Mwalongo noted Mwinyi’s commitment to public health, particularly during the International Conference on Traditional Medicinal Plants held in Arusha from February 18 to 23, 1990. At the conference, Mwinyi emphasized preserving traditional medicine as a valuable African knowledge system, advocating for research, biodiversity protection, and collaboration between health professionals and traditional practitioners. His policies also included public education on traditional medicine use and environmental conservation to improve public health outcomes. TRAMEPRO described Mwinyi’s efforts as a lasting national legacy, urging continued support through research investment, forest protection, and strong sector policies. Mwalongo stressed that honoring Mwinyi requires practical actions—such as ethical health sector reforms, capacity-building for practitioners, and policy enforcement—to sustain the sector’s growth. The organization pledged to recognize all contributors to Tanzania’s traditional medicine development, emphasizing unity and professionalism. TRAMEPRO’s focus remains on translating Mwinyi’s vision into tangible progress, ensuring his advocacy endures through systemic improvements.