ABSTRACT: MAAFIM CONFERENCE 2025

Presenter: Shabnam Palesa Mohamed

 Healing Roots: The Transformative Power of Indigenous and Natural Medicines on Health, Economy, and Sovereignty

Abstract:

In an era marked by increasing medical monopolies and the commodification of health, indigenous and natural medicines offer a powerful pathway to reclaiming health sovereignty, economic resilience, and cultural dignity. 

This presentation explores the multifaceted impact of traditional and plant-based healing systems—rooted in ancestral knowledge—on personal and public health outcomes, dignified development, and the self-determination of communities across the Global South and beyond.

Drawing on lived experiences, scientific insights, and real-world case studies, the presentation will highlight how indigenous medicines have not only preserved health for centuries but are also emerging as critical tools in addressing chronic disease, mental health crises, and immune resilience in the modern world. 

It will also unpack how investment in natural health systems supports local economies, protects biodiversity, and challenges extractive pharmaceutical paradigms.

Crucially, this talk positions indigenous medicine as a pillar of national and continental sovereignty. As African and other historically colonized nations strive to decolonize their health systems, embracing and formalizing traditional healing offers a way to re-center indigenous science, affirm identity, and build people-powered public health frameworks.

By honouring the wisdom of our roots and our connectedness, we unlock a present and future that is healthier, more prosperous, and deeply sovereign.

Presented by: Shabnam Palesa Mohamed
Short bio: Natural Health Advocate, Activist, Journalist, Lawyer, Public Speaker

Organisational Affiliations Include:

·         South Africa: Transformative Health Justice. SA VAERS and AF VAERS

·         Africa: African Sovereignty Coalition, African Natural Health, CHD Africa

·         Regional: SAMEC Alliance (South America, Africa, Asia, Middle East, Caribbean)

·         International: World Council for Health. Wage Peace International.

Personal email: SPMohamed@protonmail.com