Luanda - The chairman of the Angola's Traditional Medicine Forum, Avo Kitoko, said Monday in Luanda that 74% of the Angolan population uses medicinal plants for the treatment of various diseases.

Speaking at the first National Conference on Traditional Medicine, Avo Kitoko recalled that the Angolan Constitution establishes the promotion of policies that make primary healthcare free as one of the tasks of the State.

He also said, the Angolan Executive has drafted a national policy on traditional medicine and complementary practices, by organising the sector, allowing the recovery of the therapist and rescue of the traditions of the Angolan people, as part of their cultural heritage.

The 1st National Conference on Traditional Medicine is the result of a process of public consultations at country’s level, through regional forums organised by the Executive, with the participation of the civil society.

He also recalled that one of the main objectives of the forum is to integrate the practice of traditional medicine into the national health care system, in order to ensure effective health assistance and safety. The event takes place in Luanda under the motto "Rescue and recovery of traditional medicine to the health service".