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The Role of Traditional Healers in HIV/AIDS Management in Ghana: A Review Article

Author: Kato Jumba K.
Publisher: NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES (NIJBAS)
Published: 2026
Section: Faculty of Science and Technology

Abstract

HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge in Ghana, where, despite the availability of antiretroviral 
therapy (ART), stigma, cultural beliefs, and limited access to healthcare in rural areas continue to affect the 
management of the disease. Traditional healers play an essential role in the healthcare system, particularly in rural 
communities, by offering alternative remedies, spiritual healing, and psychological support. This review explores 
the role of traditional healers in the management of HIV/AIDS in Ghana, assessing their interaction with modern 
medical treatments such as ART. It highlights the benefits of integrating traditional healing practices, including 
improved access to care, affordability, and the provision of emotional and spiritual support. However, the integration 
of traditional and modern healthcare presents challenges, such as the lack of regulation, safety concerns, and the 
limited collaboration between traditional healers and formal healthcare providers. The review recommends fostering 
collaboration, establishing regulatory frameworks, and conducting scientific research on traditional remedies to 
create a more integrated and culturally sensitive approach to HIV/AIDS care. The findings underscore the 
importance of understanding and harnessing the strengths of both healthcare systems to improve patient outcomes 
and healthcare accessibility in Ghana.