daniel chigunwe
Nick Mangwana
Government Up Close
This article is not intended to represent a Government policy position, but rather to spark a long-overdue conversation about a critical issue that has been plaguing our communities for far too long.
The exploitation and abuse of vulnerable individuals by self-proclaimed “prophets” and traditional healers is a scourge that demands attention, debate, and ultimately, action.
As we delve into the complexities of this issue, it is essential that we approach the discussion with sensitivity, nuance, and a commitment to finding solutions that prioritise the well-being and safety of those who have been harmed.
It is time for us to come together as a society and confront the harsh realities of this issue, with the ultimate goal of creating a safer, more just environment for all.
For far too long, Zimbabwe has been plagued by the unscrupulous activities of some traditional and faith-based healers.
These individuals, who claim to possess spiritual powers and healing abilities, have been exploiting vulnerable members of society, often with devastating consequences.
The cases of abuse and exploitation at the hands of these traditional and faith healers are numerous and disturbing with a greater number now being exposed due to the increased use of social media by ordinary citizens.
There have been countless reports of sexual abuse, with many victims being married women who are lured into these predators’ clutches under the guise of spiritual guidance or healing.
The trauma and emotional distress caused by these experiences can be debilitating and long-lasting.
Furthermore, these individuals have been known to fleece people of their livestock and other valuables, often using threats and intimidation to get what they want.
This not only causes financial hardship but also erodes trust and community cohesion.
One of the most insidious aspects of those criminal traditional and faith healers is their tendency to accuse people of witchcraft, often with disastrous consequences.
This has led to numerous cases of mob justice, with accused individuals being beaten, tortured, or even killed. The resulting fear and mistrust can tear communities apart, creating an atmosphere of suspicion and hostility.
Let us talk of one Sithole, a traditional healer from a rural village in Zimbabwe, who has built a reputation for his supposed spiritual powers and healing abilities.
However, behind closed doors, it is alleged that Sithole engages in a sinister game of manipulation and exploitation. A number of individuals and families have accused Sithole of forcing them to part with their livestock after making supernatural threats against them in a manner similar to that of the infamous Tsikamutandas.
The village elders and local authorities appear slow or reluctant to respond to the allegations, and Sithole continues practicing as a traditional healer, putting more women and men at risk of exploitation.
Meanwhile, a church leader in Waterfalls, Harare, one Chateerera, was charged with rape after a married woman came forth and alleged that he had raped her under the guise of healing a stomach ailment.
At the time of the report, the “Bishop” was already in police custody for a separate case involving indecent assault.
The above cited cases, which are just a tip of the iceberg nationwide, highlight the urgent need for greater enforcement of regulation and oversight of traditional and faith healers in Zimbabwe, as well as greater support and protection for victims.
The Traditional Medical Practitioners Act Chapter 27:14 provides for the registration and regulation of the practise of traditional medical practitioners.
The Act established the Traditional Medical Practitioners Council, which is empowered to supervise and control the practice of traditional medical practitioner.
It also promotes the practice of traditional medical practitioners and to foster research into such practice.
While the Act goes a long way in promoting order and accountability in the practice, more can be done by Government and the practitioners themselves to ensure transparency and guard against abuse of the vulnerable.
Establishing a framework of financial charges for healing services provided by faith and traditional healers is essential to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
Currently, many of these practitioners operate without transparency or accountability, often charging exorbitant fees for their services. This can lead to financial ruin for individuals who are desperate for healing or spiritual guidance.
Furthermore, the lack of a standardised pricing structure creates an environment conducive to corruption and abuse of power.
By introducing a framework of charges, the Government can help ensure that citizens are not taken advantage of. This framework can also help to distinguish legitimate practitioners from charlatans, providing an added layer of protection for the public.
It is the responsibility of the Government to protect its citizens from these predators and ensure that those who claim to offer spiritual guidance or healing services do so in a safe and responsible manner.
The issue of exploitation of vulnerable individuals by traditional and faith healers is not unique to Zimbabwe. Several countries have recognised the need to regulate traditional and faith healers, and continuously tighten measures to ensure that these practitioners operate within a framework that prioritises public safety and well-being.
For example, in South Africa, the Traditional Health Practitioners Act of 2007 established a regulatory framework for traditional healers, requiring them to register with the National Traditional Health Practitioners Council and adhere to a code of ethics.
Similarly, in Australia, the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) regulates traditional and faith healers who claim to provide health services, ensuring that they meet certain standards of education, training, and practice.
In the United Kingdom, the General Regulatory Council for Complementary Therapies (GRCCT) is a voluntary regulator for complementary therapists, including traditional and faith healers.
The GRCCT sets standards for education, training, and practice, and maintains a register of practitioners who meet these standards.
In Canada, the province of Ontario has established the Traditional Chinese Medicine Act, which regulates the practice of traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture and herbal medicine.
The Act requires practitioners to register with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists, and to adhere to a code of ethics.
By learning from these examples, Zimbabwe can continue to strengthen its own regulatory framework that addresses the unique challenges and opportunities presented by traditional and faith healers.
Additionally, there should surely be established and widely publicised, a complaints mechanism that allows victims of abuse or exploitation by traditional and faith healers, to report their experiences and seek justice.
This will involve working with law enforcement agencies, social services, and community organisations to provide support and protection to those who have been affected.
Our local media should also explore the option of launching a public awareness campaign to educate people about the dangers of these unscrupulous “prophets” and traditional healers.
This involves working with community leaders, faith organisations, and media outlets to spread the message and promote a culture of scepticism and critical thinking.
The activities of some traditional and faith healers in Zimbabwe have become a menace that requires urgent attention. Government takes seriously its responsibility to protect its citizens from these predators and ensure that those who claim to offer spiritual guidance or healing services do so in a safe and responsible manner.
By enforcing the regulatory framework, providing support and protection to victims, and promoting public awareness, we can begin to address this issue and create a safer, more just society for all.
Nick Mangwana is the Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services
