Sangomas: Problem or Solution for South Africa's Health Care System

We discuss the problems associated with legalizing traditional healers-Sangomas-for the South African health care system and their role in the management and treatment of HIV/AIDS and the resistance of professional medical organizations to recognize their contribution. We list some of the diseases and conditions that can be diagnosed and/or treated by traditional healers and the efficacy of the treatment. We conclude with the problem of Sangomas identifying witches within a community and how this may affect their legitimacy.