Manto: Traditional healers important in Aids fight

Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang on Thursday vowed to continue engaging traditional healers on health issues, saying they were important partners in the fight against HIV/Aids.

“Some people might be resisting traditional healers, but I believe we are on the right track,” she said.

Speaking during a meeting in Cape Town between the Health Department and traditional leaders on initiations and circumcision, Tshabalala-Msimang said no amount of pressure would discourage her from engaging with traditional leaders on crucial issues such as HIV/Aids.

“We will not be pushed around for the sake of money and resources,” she said.

It was wrong for certain individuals and organisations to try and force people to turn their backs on their culture and traditions.

“We will not be misguided by people who are populists,” she said.—Sapa