Traditional African Medicine Practitioner Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Diagnoses, assesses and treats patients in accordance with South African Traditional Medicines.
What does a Traditional African Medicine Practitioner do?
A Traditional African Medicine Practitioner works with patients by assessing their health concerns and providing treatment based on South African Traditional Medicines. The work may focus on herbal practice, divination, traditional birth assistance or traditional surgery, depending on the practitioner’s area of specialisation.
Specialisations
How to become a Traditional African Medicine Practitioner in South Africa
- Learn about the different practice areas, including inyanga herbalism, sangoma divination, traditional birth assistance and traditional surgery.
- Develop a sound understanding of the traditional medicines and practices relevant to the area you want to pursue.
- Seek appropriate education, guidance or supervised development recognised within the relevant practice context.
- Confirm current education, recognition, assessment and practice requirements with the relevant official body or reputable training provider.
- Build experience in communicating with patients, assessing their concerns and providing care responsibly within your area of practice.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
There is no single universal qualification pathway indicated for this career, and preparation may vary according to the practitioner’s specialisation and practice context. Education can support understanding of health and traditional medicines, but prospective practitioners should verify current recognition, training and practice requirements with the relevant official body or provider.
Useful school subjects
- Life Sciences
- History
- English
Skills that may help
- Patient assessment
- Observation
- Communication
- Listening
- Knowledge of traditional medicines
- Cultural awareness
- Careful and responsible decision-making