Assessing the role of traditional medicine in seeking healthcare in Chongwe, Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract

Traditional medicine is an important component of healthcare in Zambia, over 65 (80%) of the global population, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, rely on it as a main source of medical care. In Chongwe, Lusaka, traditional medicine is usually used due to cultural beliefs, affordability and accessibility particularly among rural and less educated populations. Despite its prevalence, concerns continue concerning safety, efficacy and integration with modern healthcare systems. To identify the types of traditional medicines and remedies commonly used; To investigate the reasons for preferring traditional medicine over formal healthcare and to examine the impact of traditional medicine use on health outcomes. The study was conducted in Chongwe, Lusaka Province, Zambia. A qualitative phenomenological approach was used and purposive and snowball sampling was used, data was collected through interviews on 15 participants. The findings were analyzed using themes and narrations to give in depth experiences of participants. The results indicated that 70% of community members regularly used traditional medicine. Reasons for preference were accessibility, affordability, cultural inheritance and showed no interest to conventional healthcare. Healers diagnosed and treated illnesses using observation, touch and herbal remedies, often referring severe cases to hospitals. Healthcare workers noted risks such as non-disclosure, potential drug interactions and delays in seeking formal care but also stated support for regulated combination. The study showed that traditional medicine plays a critical role in Chongwe’s healthcare system which serves as a balancing element alongside modern medicine. Combination, supported by regulation, training and community education, is important for safe, effective and culturally responsive healthcare delivery. remedies, Keywords: Traditional medicine, healthcare seeking behaviour, Chongwe, Zambia, integration, herbal health outcomes, accessibility, cultural beliefs, regulation.