The Kumasi Branch of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) has partnered with Angel Herbal Products to organize a pioneering event in the Ashanti Region. The two-day herbal fair was held in Kumasi, the region’s capital, and was intended to increase access to certified local herbal medicines.
This event marked the first of its kind in the region and drew a large turnout, as attendees had the opportunity to interact with experts in the field and learn about the many health benefits of herbal products. The fair was held at Dufie Towers car park, Adum, from March 31 to April 1, 2023, under the theme “Exploring Healthcare through the Healing Power of Nature.” The event was supported by Adusah Herbal Mixture, Medimafo Herbal Clinic, Imboost Herbal Mixture, Sharp Herbal Company Limited, and the Amegashie Spiritual & Herbal Center.
Mr. Stephen Acheampong, the Chairman of the Kumasi Branch, stated that the fair would be held annually given its potential. The event brought together industry practitioners, policymakers, and other relevant stakeholders to explore herbal medicine and identify resources available in the region for practitioners.
In a speech read on his behalf, the Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, commended the KCCI and the Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry for promoting and protecting commercial and industrial interests. He added that the government has put in place institutional and regulatory mechanisms to support and intensify the use of plant medicine in the healthcare system.
The Head of the Food & Drugs Authority, John Laryea Odai-Tetteh, urged herbal producers to be innovative and uphold professional and ethical standards. Dr. Bernard Turkson of the Department of Herbal Medicine at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology stressed the need for herbal medicine producers to always seek expert advice. The ultimate goal of the fair is to ensure that traditional medicine achieves maximum paramountcy, like any other orthodox medicine.
The fair was a success, and attendees were delighted with the diverse range of herbal products showcased at the fair, along with the insightful presentations and discussions on the benefits of traditional medicines.
