Togo Explores Validation of Traditional Medicine through Science

In Togo, traditional remedies and plant-based treatments have been passed down through generations, remaining a cornerstone of healthcare for a significant portion of the population. The University of Lomé is seeking to explore ways to recognize and scientifically validate these ancestral practices. A colloquium is scheduled for November 24-25, 2026, in Kpédomé, Haho prefecture, to examine the potential of Togolese medicinal plants.

The colloquium aims to improve knowledge of Togolese medicinal plants, their properties, and their uses in traditional medicine. The event will bring together researchers, teachers, doctoral students, and specialists for conferences, communications, exhibitions, and roundtable discussions. Four main themes will be addressed: ethnobotany and human health, environment and medicinal biodiversity, biological control and zoothérapie, and veterinary ethnomedicine.

The goal of the colloquium extends beyond simply cataloging species. It seeks to build bridges between the knowledge of traditional healers and scientific research, with the aim of better evaluating the effectiveness of plants, promoting their development, and preserving the natural resources from which they come. This event is a continuation of the University of Lomé's research on traditional medicine.

The use of traditional medicine in Togo is widespread, with many families relying on plant-based remedies and treatments passed down through generations. However, the scientific community has often been skeptical of these practices, citing a lack of empirical evidence to support their effectiveness. The University of Lomé's colloquium aims to address this gap by exploring ways to document and validate traditional Togolese medicine.

By bringing together experts from various fields, the colloquium hopes to facilitate a dialogue between traditional healers and scientists. This exchange could lead to a better understanding of the potential benefits and limitations of traditional medicine, as well as the development of new treatments and therapies. The event may also help to promote the preservation of Togo's natural resources and cultural heritage.

The University of Lomé's research on traditional medicine has been ongoing for some time. This colloquium represents a significant step towards recognizing and validating the value of traditional Togolese medicine. The outcome of the event may have implications for healthcare policy and practice in Togo, as well as for the development of new treatments and therapies.

Ultimately, the colloquium aims to promote a more nuanced understanding of traditional medicine and its potential role in modern healthcare. By exploring ways to document and validate traditional Togolese medicine, the University of Lomé is taking a significant step towards recognizing the value of ancestral knowledge and promoting its development.

Key points

• The University of Lomé is hosting a colloquium to explore ways to recognize and scientifically validate traditional Togolese medicine.