WHO, Africa CDC in joint push for Covid-19 traditional medicine research in Africa

In a joint effort to enhance research and development of traditional medicines for Covid-19 in Africa, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) launched an expert advisory committee.

The panel aims to provide independent scientific advice and support to countries on the safety, efficacy and quality of traditional medicine therapies.

Also read: Covid-19: Balanced approach needed to manage impact of virus on Africa and its economy

The 25-member Regional Expert Committee on Traditional Medicine for Covid-19 will support countries in collaborative efforts to conduct clinical trials of traditional medicines in compliance with international standards.

By pooling expertise within the continent, the Regional Expert Committee will also accelerate the pace and elevate the standards of research, particularly clinical research on new therapies from traditional medicines against Covid-19.

Dr @MoetiTshidi speaks about the very important role that we all play in limiting the spread of #COVID19. Wearing masks, washing hands & physical distancing will protect our communities, so don’t let your guard down! pic.twitter.com/OfSG29qZDm

— WHO African Region (@WHOAFRO) July 23, 2020

WHO recognises that traditional, complementary and alternative medicine has many benefits and Africa has a long history of traditional medicine and practitioners that play an important role in providing care to populations.

“Interest in traditional medicine as potential remedies for Covid-19 is growing in Africa. As the world races to find treatment and vaccines against the virus, research into traditional and orthodox medicines as potential Covid-19 therapy must be grounded in science, and today marks an important step in supporting these endeavours,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO regional director for Africa.

“Commendable efforts are ongoing on the continent to find Covid-19 therapies in traditional medicine. Rigorous clinical testing to evaluate safety and efficacy will be critical, similar to other areas of medicine,” said Dr John Nkengasong, director of Africa CDC and WHO special envoy on Covid-19.

Members of the Regional Expert Committee are mainly from research institutions, national regulatory authorities, traditional medicine programmes, public health departments, academia, medical pharmacy professions and civil society organisations of member states.

Also read: African countries among innovation leaders in the fight against Covid-19

Their expertise covers various areas such as traditional medicine research and development, laboratory and pre-clinical research; clinical research; regulation of medical products; research ethics; public health and community empowerment; leadership and governance; laboratory strengthening and infectious disease.

Thanks to all my @HHA_Africa colleagues for today’s important discussion on the critical gaps in #Africa's #COVID19 response. Look forward to putting our efforts, expertise & resources together to fight this epidemic. pic.twitter.com/jg2kzXay9H

— Dr Matshidiso Moeti (@MoetiTshidi) July 23, 2020

The Regional Expert Committee will start working immediately.

Developing a master protocol to guide countries on clinical trials for Covid-19 and setting the agenda to support member states will be among the initial tasks.

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