Commemoration of African Traditional Medicine Day

To commemorate the African Traditional Medicine Day which falls on 31st August yearly, the Seychelles Heritage Foundation (SHF), in collaboration with the Department of Culture and the Seychelles National Youth Council (SNYC) organized a two day activity at Domaine de Val des Prés, Au Cap on Friday 28th and Saturday 29th August 2020. The major activity was the launching of the Spice Garden by the youths from SNYC as well as the Local Coffee Garden by school heritage club members. The event proceeded with ‘Bazar Domaine’, an activity to bring together local herbalists and farmers  in order for them to give exposure to their products, as well as educate the public about the uses of traditional medicinal plants. It was also to encourage people to plant local herbs and spices and promote holistic medicine.

We had an array of local products with the participations of over 15 vendors, ranging from farmers, senior citizens selling crafts and local creoles delicacies such as pawpaw jam and local pickles. The herbalist situated themselves in the Maison Coco,selling local ‘Tizann’, such as ‘bwa torti’, bitter leaf and packed infusions for different ailments. Kreol Institute and Heritage Research Section were also present, whereby they sold a variety of creole children’s book, creole fictions and books about medicinal plants of Seychelles,

The activity attracted a large crowd for both days, people came especially for rare plants and products in order to start their own garden. They also enjoyed a nice family day out while respecting the health guidance.  SHF hopes to repeat the activity in the near future.