Malanje: The Indian Embassy in Angola intends to implement Ayurvedic medicine in Malanje province in the near future, aiming to contribute to the development of the region's health sector through this traditional method. Ayurveda, a health system that has existed in India for over 5,000 years, was recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1978. In Angola, it is currently only established in Luanda.
According to Angola Press News Agency, a delegation from the Indian Embassy presented a proposal on Wednesday to the provincial government and health authorities to introduce this medicinal system to Malanje, with the aim of complementing conventional medicine. During the presentation, the Indian Ambassador, Vidhu Nair, stated that they intend to expand this initiative throughout Angola, beginning with Malanje, due to its favorable climate and natural conditions.
The diplomat announced that Malanje had been selected as the reference center for Ayurvedic medicine in Angola, marking it as the first province to officially implement this system. This initiative is expected to strengthen institutional relations between India and Angola. The local governor, Marcos Nhunga, expressed interest in collaborating with India to establish this medical system in the province, which has been known to aid in treating diseases.
Governor Nhunga suggested that a team of government officials from the Provincial Health Office and the three largest health units in the province could travel to India. This visit would allow them to observe Ayurvedic practices, share experiences, and negotiate the necessary steps for its implementation in Malanje.
Fl¡via Maxima Keijzer, the only specialist in Ayurvedic medicine in Angola, added that this type of medicine is holistic, focusing on the patient as the center of attention. It addresses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects to ensure all areas of a person's well-being are covered. She noted that Malanje's environment is ideal for this practice, particularly beneficial for patients with chronic diseases such as asthma.
Keijzer emphasized that Ayurvedic medicine covers aspects of psychiatry, geriatrics, rejuvenation, virility, pediatrics, and surgery, similar to conventional medicine. She highlighted Malanje's fertile land as suitable for cultivating medicinal plants, enhancing the potential success of this initiative.
