Bongaka jwa Setso recommended for recognition

This came to the fore in the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the Review of the Constitution of Botswana report. Following its countrywide consultations, the Commission made several recommendations, among them that legislation should be enacted to protect, regulate and promote indigenous knowledge, including Bongaka jwa Setso. Most people in Botswana consider themselves followers of traditional religions as such Bongaka jwa Setso has always been part of the lives of Batswana.

According to the Commission, submissions were made that indigenous knowledge and Bongaka jwa Setso (traditional healing) must be recognised and protected at the level of the Constitution. The Commission highlighted that views were expressed that despite the presence of western medicine, many people still rely on traditional medicine for various needs “The Commission supports the submissions and notes that Bongaka jwa Setso is regulated through Societies Act 2022. Furthermore, there are laws that protect indigenous knowledge and patenting of associated products,” read the Commission’s report. It was submitted that prior to the arrival of the western medicines into Botswana, Bongaka jwa Setso provided primary health care.