Traditional healers must obey law, stop exploiting vulnerable people

DAR ES SALAAM: IT might look trivial at first glance, but the Police deserve commendation for issuing a warning that merits serious public attention. Too many vulnerable people continue to fall prey to unscrupulous traditional and alternative medicine practitioners who exploit desperation, spread fear and sometimes create conflict within families. Such practices have no place in a modern society striving for peace, security and development.

Poverty, illness, unemployment and domestic challenges often leave people searching for hope wherever they can find it. Unfortunately, some dishonest practitioners take advantage of these hardships by making extraordinary promises, demanding large payments and convincing clients that every misfortune has a hidden supernatural cause. Instead of solving problems, they often deepen suffering while enriching themselves at the expense of those least able to afford it.

The Police are right to warn against practices that encourage division among relatives or falsely accuse innocent family members of causing hardship through witchcraft or mysterious forces. Such allegations destroy trust, poison relationships and can provoke violence. No society can prosper when fear replaces reason and suspicion replaces unity.

The public must therefore become more vigilant. Before believing sensational claims or paying for supposed miraculous remedies, people should ask questions, seek reliable advice and rely on evidence rather than intimidation or manipulation. Desperation should never become an opportunity for exploitation.

Equally important is the Police warning against the illegal use of protected wildlife specimens and government trophies. Respect for the law is essential, regardless of occupation or belief. Those operating outside the law must be held accountable to protect both public safety and national resources.

The world is advancing through science, technology, innovation and evidence-based healthcare. Nations that embrace research and modern knowledge strengthen their economies, improve public health and create better opportunities for future generations. It is therefore unfortunate that some people remain trapped in outdated beliefs that discourage critical thinking and slow national progress.

Respecting cultural traditions does not mean accepting practices that exploit ignorance, undermine families or violate the law. Any form of traditional medicine should operate responsibly, ethically and within established legal standards.

The Police have sounded an important alarm. Citizens should listen carefully, remain alert and refuse to become victims of manipulation disguised as healing. A society that values knowledge, lawful conduct and scientific progress will always be stronger than one held back by fear, superstition and those who profit from human desperation and misplaced trust.