{"id":5996,"date":"2025-09-23T02:17:26","date_gmt":"2025-09-23T05:17:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wctcim.cabsin.org.br\/new\/presentation\/stage-of-indigenous-medicine-in-africa\/"},"modified":"2025-10-12T04:43:54","modified_gmt":"2025-10-12T07:43:54","slug":"stage-of-indigenous-medicine-in-africa","status":"publish","type":"presentation","link":"https:\/\/wctcim.cabsin.org.br\/new\/presentation\/stage-of-indigenous-medicine-in-africa\/","title":{"rendered":"Stage of Indigenous Medicine in Africa and Integration of Traditional Medicine in The Health System in Africa: Opportunities and Challenges Compared to Other Continents in The World"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>At the 3rd WCTCIM, LAKASSA Essossiminam will discuss the current Stage of Indigenous Medicine in Africa. The presentation addresses the continent&#8217;s unique challenges in research and integration, proposing solutions for collaboration with traditional healers and defining a distinct path forward.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"template":"","activity-category":[240,221,232],"activity-tag":[],"activity-location":[181],"class_list":["post-5996","presentation","type-presentation","status-publish","hentry","activity-category-parallel-session-a","activity-category-presentations","activity-category-simultaneous-live-streaming","activity-location-main-auditorium"],"acf":{"event_day":"16","start_time":"11:36","end_time":"11:54","abstract":"<p>As WHO new decade strategic plan said\u00a0:<br \/>\nTraditional medicine is used by people across all six regions of WHO.1<br \/>\nTraditional medicine refers to codified or non-codified systems for healthcare and well-being, comprising practices, skills, knowledge and philosophies originating in different \u00a0historical and cultural contexts, \u00a0which are distinct from and pre-date bio medicine, evolving with \u00a0science for current use from an \u00a0experience-based origin.<br \/>\nTraditional medicine emphasizes \u00a0nature-based remedies and holistic, \u00a0personalized approaches to restore balance of mind, body \u00a0and environment.<br \/>\nTo reach WHO vision \u00a0and goal, Guiding principles has been stated\u00a0:<br \/>\n&#8211;\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Challenges,<br \/>\n&#8211;\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Opportunities<br \/>\n&#8211;\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0and Strategy for integration of Traditional African Medicine into the Healthcare System.<br \/>\nBrazilian World Congress on TM will surly will talk about the realities of each area of the world.<br \/>\nMy presentation will focus on the reality healers (indigenous knowledge holders) are facing in Africa.<br \/>\nI will propose solution which surly will benefit others continents to know how to collaborate with healers \u00a0to facilitate research, governing, property right \u00a0and \u00a0integration.<br \/>\nAfrica is the late continent on scientific research, governing and integration but Africa is the one of the best continent healers are the holders of indigenous knowledge but most illiterate and theirs children are so interested because of conventional practices influences.<br \/>\nany database is done to make conservation of that knowledge.<br \/>\nMy presentation will encourage partners on differences ways and fields to contribute for promotion and integration of TM in health system in Africa.<br \/>\nThe truth is that, we are not on the same level of development of traditional medicine in our continents and countries. Africa is the latest in that development.<br \/>\nSo then, we can not be on the same stage of implementation and our projects to take from the world&#8217;s traditional strategic plan can not be the same with other continents.<br \/>\nIntegration understanding in Africa will never be the same in Europe or America or in the Asian continent.<br \/>\nYours sincerely Mr.\u00a0 LAKASSA Essossiminam<\/p>\n","presentation_speaker":[{"ID":5194,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2025-09-08 21:02:24","post_date_gmt":"2025-09-09 00:02:24","post_content":"<!-- wp:html -->\n\n<style>\n  .speaker-bio {\n    display: flex;\n    flex-wrap: wrap;\n    align-items: flex-start;\n    gap: 20px;\n  }\n\n  .speaker-bio figure {\n    width: 225px;\n    height: 225px;\n    margin: 0 20px 30px 0;\n  }\n  .speaker-bio figure img {\n    width: 100%;\n    height: 100%;\n    object-fit: cover;\n    border-radius: 50%;\n    border: none;\n  }\n\n  .bio-content {\n    flex: 1;\n    color: #414d58;\n    font-size: 15px;    \n    line-height: 1.6;\n  }\n  .bio-content a {\n    color: #1d89e4;\n    text-decoration: none;\n  }\n\n  .bio-content h2 {\n    font-size: 24px;\n    color: #1d89e4;\n    font-weight: 600;\n    line-height: 1.5;\n    margin-bottom: 1em;\n  }\n  .bio-content h3 {\n    font-size: 18px;\n    color: #1d89e4;\n    font-weight: 500;\n    line-height: 1.4;\n    margin-top: 1.8em;\n    margin-bottom: 0.8em;\n  }\n  .bio-content h4 {\n    font-size: 15px;\n    color: #1d89e4;\n    font-weight: 500;\n    line-height: 1.4;\n    margin-top: 1.5em;\n    margin-bottom: 0.6em;\n  }\n\n  .speaker-separator {\n    margin: 0;\n    border: none;\n    border-top: 1px solid #ccc;\n  }\n\n  @media (max-width: 600px) {\n    .speaker-bio {\n      flex-direction: column;\n      align-items: flex-start;\n      gap: 10px;\n    }\n    .speaker-bio figure {\n      width: 180px;\n      height: 180px;\n      margin-bottom: 10px;\n    }\n    .bio-content {\n      width: 100%;\n      text-align: left;\n    }\n    .bio-content h2 {\n      font-size: 20px;\n      line-height: 1.5;\n      margin-bottom: 0.8em;\n    }\n    .bio-content h3 {\n      font-size: 16px;\n      line-height: 1.4;\n      margin-top: 1.5em;\n      margin-bottom: 0.6em;\n    }\n    .bio-content h4 {\n      font-size: 14px;\n      line-height: 1.4;\n      margin-top: 1.3em;\n      margin-bottom: 0.5em;\n    }\n    .bio-content p,\n    .bio-content ul {\n      font-size: 14px;\n    }\n  }\n<\/style>\n\n<div class=\"speaker-bio\">\n  <figure>\n    <img\n      src=\"https:\/\/wctcim.cabsin.org.br\/new\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/lakassa_essossiminam_profile_2025_09_08.png\"\n      alt=\"A professional headshot of Lakassa Essossiminam. He is wearing formal attire and looking directly at the camera with a composed expression.\"\n    \/>\n  <\/figure>\n  <div class=\"bio-content\">\n<h2>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/h2>\n    <p><strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> is a distinguished phytotherapist and a leading researcher in African Traditional Medicine. He serves as the Coordinator of the Confederation of Traditional Medicine Associations of West Africa (CAMTAO), representing practitioners across the fifteen member countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).<\/p>\n    <p>His extensive work in policy development and regional cooperation makes his perspective invaluable to the 3rd WCTCIM. Consequently, his contributions are central to advancing South-South collaboration and implementing the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025-2034, reflecting a career dedicated to the formal recognition and integration of traditional knowledge into global health systems.<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"speaker-separator\">\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Biography and Expertise of Lakassa Essossiminam<\/h3>\n  <p><strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> has dedicated over two decades to advancing African traditional medicine, evolving from a national advocate in Togo to a preeminent figure shaping health policy across West Africa and globally. His career is a testament to the power of persistent, strategic leadership in bridging the gap between ancestral knowledge and modern healthcare frameworks. His work directly embodies the 3rd WCTCIM's Thematic Axis, \"Integration of TCIM into Health Systems,\" as he has been a primary architect of the policies and regulations that facilitate this integration throughout the ECOWAS region.<\/p>\n  <p>Mr. Essossiminam's journey began with foundational efforts in his home country, where he was instrumental in establishing partnerships between traditional healers and the Ministry of Health. This grassroots experience provided him with deep insights into the practical challenges and opportunities of integration. Therefore, his later work at the regional level with the West African Health Organisation (WAHO) has been profoundly informed by this understanding. His leadership promotes the congress motto of \"Knowledge Diversity,\" championing the rich heritage of African phytotherapy on the world stage.<\/p>\n  <p>Recently, his influence has reached the highest levels of global health governance. His appointment to the WHO Global Editorial Experts Committee and the World Technical Committee on Traditional Medicine underscores his status as a leading expert. Furthermore, his role as a representative for ECOWAS at the First World Summit on Traditional Medicine in Gujarat, India, places <strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> at the forefront of implementing the principles of the Gujarat Declaration, advocating for science, evidence, and sustainability in traditional medicine practices worldwide.<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Professional Career<\/h3>\n  <p><strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong>'s career shows steady progression from local to international influence. From the late 1990s, he pioneered traditional medicine formalization in Togo, extending work across West Africa. His career emphasizes building institutional capacity, regulatory frameworks, and advocating for practitioners' rights.<\/p>\n  <p>Each role expanded his capacity for change, from co-founding national associations to advising regional health bodies and contributing to global health strategy. This reflects deep understanding of integrating traditional medicine into public health effectively.<\/p>\n  <ul>\n    <li><strong>2024:<\/strong> WHO Global Editorial\/World Technical Committees.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2023:<\/strong> ECOWAS Trad. Med. rep. at 1st WHO Summit, India.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2020:<\/strong> Togo COVID-19 Response Committee.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2018:<\/strong> Coordinator, CAMTAO.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2016:<\/strong> WAHO-ECOWAS Trad. Med. experts.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2015:<\/strong> Consultant: Trad. Med. drug regulation.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2013:<\/strong> M&T Assoc. (Switzerland) Merit Award.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2010:<\/strong> Coordinator, WA Trad. Med. Federations.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2008:<\/strong> WAHO expert: Trad. Med. Strategic Plan.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2002:<\/strong> U.S. Peace Corps (Togo) Trad. Med. expert.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>1999:<\/strong> Co-founder & SG, ATTT.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>1998:<\/strong> Partnership: Togo Health Min. & Trad. Med.<\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Academic Qualifications and Foundational Training<\/h3>\n  <p><strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> is professionally recognized as a Phytotherapist and a dedicated Researcher in African Traditional Medicine. While details of his formal academic degrees are not publicly documented, his profound expertise is unequivocally demonstrated through his extensive and impactful career. His deep knowledge is not merely theoretical but has been forged through decades of hands-on practice, policy development, and high-level international diplomacy.<\/p>\n  <p>His career itself serves as a powerful testament to his mastery of the field. Beyond his recognized titles, his work as a trainer of traditional medicine practitioners on critical health issues like malaria, and as a consultant on the complex processes of regulating traditional medicines, highlights a robust and applied understanding of phytotherapy and public health systems. Consequently, his qualifications are best understood through the tangible outcomes of his work and the respected leadership roles he holds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Policy Development and Knowledge Codification<\/h3>\n  <p>The research contributions of <strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> are centered on applied, policy-oriented work rather than conventional academic publishing. His focus has been on the critical tasks of strategic development, regulation, and the official integration of traditional medicine into national and regional health systems. This practical approach to research has produced foundational documents that guide the practice and governance of traditional medicine across West Africa.<\/p>\n  <p>A landmark contribution was his participation as a WAHO expert in the development of a monograph for the first edition of the West African pharmacopoeia in 2009. This work was essential for standardizing knowledge and ensuring the quality and safety of traditional herbal medicines. Furthermore, he contributed to the WAHO Strategic Plan for Traditional Medicine 2009\u20132013, a key document that has guided regional policy for years. His efforts have been instrumental in transforming oral traditions into codified, accessible knowledge for health professionals and policymakers.<\/p>\n  <p>In addition, <strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> has been a key participant in expert meetings focused on integrating the teaching of traditional medicine into West African universities. This work addresses a critical need for structured education and training, ensuring that future generations of healthcare providers are equipped with an understanding of integrative approaches. His career is thus defined by the creation of lasting frameworks that advance the legitimacy and practice of traditional medicine.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Awards and Global Recognitions<\/h3>\n  <p>The significant contributions of <strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> to the field of traditional medicine have been formally recognized by both regional and international bodies. These accolades and high-level appointments reflect the profound respect he has garnered within the global health community and validate his role as a pivotal leader and advocate. They underscore a career dedicated to the advancement of traditional knowledge systems on a global scale.<\/p>\n  <p>These honors highlight not only his personal achievements but also the growing international acknowledgment of the importance of African traditional medicine. They are a testament to his tireless efforts to build bridges between traditional practice and formal health systems.<\/p>\n  <ul>\n    <li><strong>Appointment to WHO World Technical Committee on Traditional Medicine (2024):<\/strong> His nomination to this prestigious committee signifies his status as a leading global expert, contributing to the highest level of strategy and policy at the World Health Organization.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Appointment to WHO Global Editorial Experts Committee (2024):<\/strong> This role recognizes his expertise in the codification and dissemination of knowledge on traditional medicine.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Merit Award in Traditional Medicine (2013):<\/strong> Awarded by the M&T (Medicine and Tradition) Association of Switzerland, this honor recognized his outstanding contributions to the field early in his regional leadership career.<\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Leadership and Institutional Representation<\/h3>\n  <p><strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> holds several key leadership positions that enable him to steer the strategic direction of traditional medicine in Africa and beyond. His active involvement in these organizations demonstrates a deep commitment to fostering collaboration, upholding standards, and advocating for the integration of traditional health practices into mainstream systems. These roles place him at the nexus of policy, practice, and international diplomacy.<\/p>\n  <p>Through this work, he provides a crucial voice for thousands of traditional medicine practitioners, ensuring their knowledge and concerns are represented in national and international forums. His leadership is therefore fundamental to building a more inclusive and effective global health landscape.<\/p>\n  <ul>\n    <li><strong>Coordinator, Confederation of Traditional Medicine Associations of West Africa (CAMTAO):<\/strong> In this principal role, he represents the federations of all 15 ECOWAS countries, serving as a chief spokesperson and strategist for the region.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Expert Committee Member, West African Health Organisation (WAHO):<\/strong> Since 2016, he has advised this key regional health body, contributing to the development of policies and strategic plans for traditional medicine.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>National Representative, COVID-19 Response Committee, Togo:<\/strong> His participation highlights the recognized importance of traditional medicine even in acute public health crises.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Founding Member and Secretary General, Association of Traditional Therapists of Togo (ATTT):<\/strong> His foundational work at the national level created a model for practitioner organization and government collaboration.<\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Connect with Lakassa Essossiminam<\/h3>\n  <p>To gain further insight into the work and advocacy of <strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong>, you can consult his official profile from the World Health Organization. This resource was created for his participation in the First WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit and provides a verified summary of his role and contributions to the field.<\/p>\n  <p>\n    <strong>Official WHO Speaker Profile:<\/strong>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/events\/detail\/2023\/08\/17\/default-calendar\/first-who-traditional-medicine-global-summit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">View Profile at WHO Events<\/a>\n  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:html -->","post_title":"Lakassa Essossiminam","post_excerpt":"Lakassa Essossiminam is a phytotherapist and researcher in African traditional medicine. As a WHO expert and Coordinator for West African traditional medicine federations, he has been instrumental in shaping policies for integrating this knowledge into public health systems.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"lakassa-essossiminam","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-09-29 06:35:55","post_modified_gmt":"2025-09-29 09:35:55","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/wctcim.cabsin.org.br\/new\/speaker\/lakassa-essossiminam\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"speaker","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"activity":{"ID":5993,"post_author":"5","post_date":"2025-09-23 02:47:31","post_date_gmt":"2025-09-23 05:47:31","post_content":"","post_title":"Panel: Indigenous Medicine","post_excerpt":"The 3rd WCTCIM presents a panel on Indigenous Medicine, where experts will discuss the role of traditional knowledge systems in global health. This session explores the diversity of practices and their integration into modern healthcare, aligning with the congress's focus on evidence and sustainability.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"indigenous-medicine","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-10-12 20:36:19","post_modified_gmt":"2025-10-12 23:36:19","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/wctcim.cabsin.org.br\/new\/activity\/a-parallel-sessions\/indigenous-medicine\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"activity","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},"origem_da_ultima_atualizacao":"manual_ui"},"presentation_fields":{"event_day":"16","start_time":"11:36","end_time":"11:54","abstract":"<p>As WHO new decade strategic plan said\u00a0:<br \/>\nTraditional medicine is used by people across all six regions of WHO.1<br \/>\nTraditional medicine refers to codified or non-codified systems for healthcare and well-being, comprising practices, skills, knowledge and philosophies originating in different \u00a0historical and cultural contexts, \u00a0which are distinct from and pre-date bio medicine, evolving with \u00a0science for current use from an \u00a0experience-based origin.<br \/>\nTraditional medicine emphasizes \u00a0nature-based remedies and holistic, \u00a0personalized approaches to restore balance of mind, body \u00a0and environment.<br \/>\nTo reach WHO vision \u00a0and goal, Guiding principles has been stated\u00a0:<br \/>\n&#8211;\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Challenges,<br \/>\n&#8211;\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Opportunities<br \/>\n&#8211;\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0and Strategy for integration of Traditional African Medicine into the Healthcare System.<br \/>\nBrazilian World Congress on TM will surly will talk about the realities of each area of the world.<br \/>\nMy presentation will focus on the reality healers (indigenous knowledge holders) are facing in Africa.<br \/>\nI will propose solution which surly will benefit others continents to know how to collaborate with healers \u00a0to facilitate research, governing, property right \u00a0and \u00a0integration.<br \/>\nAfrica is the late continent on scientific research, governing and integration but Africa is the one of the best continent healers are the holders of indigenous knowledge but most illiterate and theirs children are so interested because of conventional practices influences.<br \/>\nany database is done to make conservation of that knowledge.<br \/>\nMy presentation will encourage partners on differences ways and fields to contribute for promotion and integration of TM in health system in Africa.<br \/>\nThe truth is that, we are not on the same level of development of traditional medicine in our continents and countries. Africa is the latest in that development.<br \/>\nSo then, we can not be on the same stage of implementation and our projects to take from the world&#8217;s traditional strategic plan can not be the same with other continents.<br \/>\nIntegration understanding in Africa will never be the same in Europe or America or in the Asian continent.<br \/>\nYours sincerely Mr.\u00a0 LAKASSA Essossiminam<\/p>\n","presentation_speaker":[{"ID":5194,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2025-09-08 21:02:24","post_date_gmt":"2025-09-09 00:02:24","post_content":"<!-- wp:html -->\n\n<style>\n  .speaker-bio {\n    display: flex;\n    flex-wrap: wrap;\n    align-items: flex-start;\n    gap: 20px;\n  }\n\n  .speaker-bio figure {\n    width: 225px;\n    height: 225px;\n    margin: 0 20px 30px 0;\n  }\n  .speaker-bio figure img {\n    width: 100%;\n    height: 100%;\n    object-fit: cover;\n    border-radius: 50%;\n    border: none;\n  }\n\n  .bio-content {\n    flex: 1;\n    color: #414d58;\n    font-size: 15px;    \n    line-height: 1.6;\n  }\n  .bio-content a {\n    color: #1d89e4;\n    text-decoration: none;\n  }\n\n  .bio-content h2 {\n    font-size: 24px;\n    color: #1d89e4;\n    font-weight: 600;\n    line-height: 1.5;\n    margin-bottom: 1em;\n  }\n  .bio-content h3 {\n    font-size: 18px;\n    color: #1d89e4;\n    font-weight: 500;\n    line-height: 1.4;\n    margin-top: 1.8em;\n    margin-bottom: 0.8em;\n  }\n  .bio-content h4 {\n    font-size: 15px;\n    color: #1d89e4;\n    font-weight: 500;\n    line-height: 1.4;\n    margin-top: 1.5em;\n    margin-bottom: 0.6em;\n  }\n\n  .speaker-separator {\n    margin: 0;\n    border: none;\n    border-top: 1px solid #ccc;\n  }\n\n  @media (max-width: 600px) {\n    .speaker-bio {\n      flex-direction: column;\n      align-items: flex-start;\n      gap: 10px;\n    }\n    .speaker-bio figure {\n      width: 180px;\n      height: 180px;\n      margin-bottom: 10px;\n    }\n    .bio-content {\n      width: 100%;\n      text-align: left;\n    }\n    .bio-content h2 {\n      font-size: 20px;\n      line-height: 1.5;\n      margin-bottom: 0.8em;\n    }\n    .bio-content h3 {\n      font-size: 16px;\n      line-height: 1.4;\n      margin-top: 1.5em;\n      margin-bottom: 0.6em;\n    }\n    .bio-content h4 {\n      font-size: 14px;\n      line-height: 1.4;\n      margin-top: 1.3em;\n      margin-bottom: 0.5em;\n    }\n    .bio-content p,\n    .bio-content ul {\n      font-size: 14px;\n    }\n  }\n<\/style>\n\n<div class=\"speaker-bio\">\n  <figure>\n    <img\n      src=\"https:\/\/wctcim.cabsin.org.br\/new\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/lakassa_essossiminam_profile_2025_09_08.png\"\n      alt=\"A professional headshot of Lakassa Essossiminam. He is wearing formal attire and looking directly at the camera with a composed expression.\"\n    \/>\n  <\/figure>\n  <div class=\"bio-content\">\n<h2>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/h2>\n    <p><strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> is a distinguished phytotherapist and a leading researcher in African Traditional Medicine. He serves as the Coordinator of the Confederation of Traditional Medicine Associations of West Africa (CAMTAO), representing practitioners across the fifteen member countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).<\/p>\n    <p>His extensive work in policy development and regional cooperation makes his perspective invaluable to the 3rd WCTCIM. Consequently, his contributions are central to advancing South-South collaboration and implementing the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025-2034, reflecting a career dedicated to the formal recognition and integration of traditional knowledge into global health systems.<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"speaker-separator\">\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Biography and Expertise of Lakassa Essossiminam<\/h3>\n  <p><strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> has dedicated over two decades to advancing African traditional medicine, evolving from a national advocate in Togo to a preeminent figure shaping health policy across West Africa and globally. His career is a testament to the power of persistent, strategic leadership in bridging the gap between ancestral knowledge and modern healthcare frameworks. His work directly embodies the 3rd WCTCIM's Thematic Axis, \"Integration of TCIM into Health Systems,\" as he has been a primary architect of the policies and regulations that facilitate this integration throughout the ECOWAS region.<\/p>\n  <p>Mr. Essossiminam's journey began with foundational efforts in his home country, where he was instrumental in establishing partnerships between traditional healers and the Ministry of Health. This grassroots experience provided him with deep insights into the practical challenges and opportunities of integration. Therefore, his later work at the regional level with the West African Health Organisation (WAHO) has been profoundly informed by this understanding. His leadership promotes the congress motto of \"Knowledge Diversity,\" championing the rich heritage of African phytotherapy on the world stage.<\/p>\n  <p>Recently, his influence has reached the highest levels of global health governance. His appointment to the WHO Global Editorial Experts Committee and the World Technical Committee on Traditional Medicine underscores his status as a leading expert. Furthermore, his role as a representative for ECOWAS at the First World Summit on Traditional Medicine in Gujarat, India, places <strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> at the forefront of implementing the principles of the Gujarat Declaration, advocating for science, evidence, and sustainability in traditional medicine practices worldwide.<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Professional Career<\/h3>\n  <p><strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong>'s career shows steady progression from local to international influence. From the late 1990s, he pioneered traditional medicine formalization in Togo, extending work across West Africa. His career emphasizes building institutional capacity, regulatory frameworks, and advocating for practitioners' rights.<\/p>\n  <p>Each role expanded his capacity for change, from co-founding national associations to advising regional health bodies and contributing to global health strategy. This reflects deep understanding of integrating traditional medicine into public health effectively.<\/p>\n  <ul>\n    <li><strong>2024:<\/strong> WHO Global Editorial\/World Technical Committees.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2023:<\/strong> ECOWAS Trad. Med. rep. at 1st WHO Summit, India.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2020:<\/strong> Togo COVID-19 Response Committee.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2018:<\/strong> Coordinator, CAMTAO.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2016:<\/strong> WAHO-ECOWAS Trad. Med. experts.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2015:<\/strong> Consultant: Trad. Med. drug regulation.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2013:<\/strong> M&T Assoc. (Switzerland) Merit Award.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2010:<\/strong> Coordinator, WA Trad. Med. Federations.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2008:<\/strong> WAHO expert: Trad. Med. Strategic Plan.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>2002:<\/strong> U.S. Peace Corps (Togo) Trad. Med. expert.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>1999:<\/strong> Co-founder & SG, ATTT.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>1998:<\/strong> Partnership: Togo Health Min. & Trad. Med.<\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Academic Qualifications and Foundational Training<\/h3>\n  <p><strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> is professionally recognized as a Phytotherapist and a dedicated Researcher in African Traditional Medicine. While details of his formal academic degrees are not publicly documented, his profound expertise is unequivocally demonstrated through his extensive and impactful career. His deep knowledge is not merely theoretical but has been forged through decades of hands-on practice, policy development, and high-level international diplomacy.<\/p>\n  <p>His career itself serves as a powerful testament to his mastery of the field. Beyond his recognized titles, his work as a trainer of traditional medicine practitioners on critical health issues like malaria, and as a consultant on the complex processes of regulating traditional medicines, highlights a robust and applied understanding of phytotherapy and public health systems. Consequently, his qualifications are best understood through the tangible outcomes of his work and the respected leadership roles he holds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Policy Development and Knowledge Codification<\/h3>\n  <p>The research contributions of <strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> are centered on applied, policy-oriented work rather than conventional academic publishing. His focus has been on the critical tasks of strategic development, regulation, and the official integration of traditional medicine into national and regional health systems. This practical approach to research has produced foundational documents that guide the practice and governance of traditional medicine across West Africa.<\/p>\n  <p>A landmark contribution was his participation as a WAHO expert in the development of a monograph for the first edition of the West African pharmacopoeia in 2009. This work was essential for standardizing knowledge and ensuring the quality and safety of traditional herbal medicines. Furthermore, he contributed to the WAHO Strategic Plan for Traditional Medicine 2009\u20132013, a key document that has guided regional policy for years. His efforts have been instrumental in transforming oral traditions into codified, accessible knowledge for health professionals and policymakers.<\/p>\n  <p>In addition, <strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> has been a key participant in expert meetings focused on integrating the teaching of traditional medicine into West African universities. This work addresses a critical need for structured education and training, ensuring that future generations of healthcare providers are equipped with an understanding of integrative approaches. His career is thus defined by the creation of lasting frameworks that advance the legitimacy and practice of traditional medicine.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Awards and Global Recognitions<\/h3>\n  <p>The significant contributions of <strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> to the field of traditional medicine have been formally recognized by both regional and international bodies. These accolades and high-level appointments reflect the profound respect he has garnered within the global health community and validate his role as a pivotal leader and advocate. They underscore a career dedicated to the advancement of traditional knowledge systems on a global scale.<\/p>\n  <p>These honors highlight not only his personal achievements but also the growing international acknowledgment of the importance of African traditional medicine. They are a testament to his tireless efforts to build bridges between traditional practice and formal health systems.<\/p>\n  <ul>\n    <li><strong>Appointment to WHO World Technical Committee on Traditional Medicine (2024):<\/strong> His nomination to this prestigious committee signifies his status as a leading global expert, contributing to the highest level of strategy and policy at the World Health Organization.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Appointment to WHO Global Editorial Experts Committee (2024):<\/strong> This role recognizes his expertise in the codification and dissemination of knowledge on traditional medicine.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Merit Award in Traditional Medicine (2013):<\/strong> Awarded by the M&T (Medicine and Tradition) Association of Switzerland, this honor recognized his outstanding contributions to the field early in his regional leadership career.<\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Leadership and Institutional Representation<\/h3>\n  <p><strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong> holds several key leadership positions that enable him to steer the strategic direction of traditional medicine in Africa and beyond. His active involvement in these organizations demonstrates a deep commitment to fostering collaboration, upholding standards, and advocating for the integration of traditional health practices into mainstream systems. These roles place him at the nexus of policy, practice, and international diplomacy.<\/p>\n  <p>Through this work, he provides a crucial voice for thousands of traditional medicine practitioners, ensuring their knowledge and concerns are represented in national and international forums. His leadership is therefore fundamental to building a more inclusive and effective global health landscape.<\/p>\n  <ul>\n    <li><strong>Coordinator, Confederation of Traditional Medicine Associations of West Africa (CAMTAO):<\/strong> In this principal role, he represents the federations of all 15 ECOWAS countries, serving as a chief spokesperson and strategist for the region.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Expert Committee Member, West African Health Organisation (WAHO):<\/strong> Since 2016, he has advised this key regional health body, contributing to the development of policies and strategic plans for traditional medicine.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>National Representative, COVID-19 Response Committee, Togo:<\/strong> His participation highlights the recognized importance of traditional medicine even in acute public health crises.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Founding Member and Secretary General, Association of Traditional Therapists of Togo (ATTT):<\/strong> His foundational work at the national level created a model for practitioner organization and government collaboration.<\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bio-content\">\n  <h3>Connect with Lakassa Essossiminam<\/h3>\n  <p>To gain further insight into the work and advocacy of <strong>Lakassa Essossiminam<\/strong>, you can consult his official profile from the World Health Organization. This resource was created for his participation in the First WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit and provides a verified summary of his role and contributions to the field.<\/p>\n  <p>\n    <strong>Official WHO Speaker Profile:<\/strong>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/events\/detail\/2023\/08\/17\/default-calendar\/first-who-traditional-medicine-global-summit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">View Profile at WHO Events<\/a>\n  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:html -->","post_title":"Lakassa Essossiminam","post_excerpt":"Lakassa Essossiminam is a phytotherapist and researcher in African traditional medicine. 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