By Khumo Makame
A historic moment unfolded in Kimberley this month as the Professional Association for African Traditional Health Practitioners of South Africa hosted its first-ever national conference, bringing together traditional healers and spiritual leaders from across four provinces.
Founded by Benny Collins, the association is working to formalise and uplift traditional healing practices in South Africa. Attendees came from the Northern Cape, Free State, North West, and Gauteng, uniting under one roof to share knowledge, challenges, and a renewed vision for community health leadership.
“This conference is to encourage the traditional practitioners and spiritual healers—how to work and how to behave as a leader or a healer,” said Collins. “We’re not just healers. We are leaders. We are the frontliners for the community.” Why Now?
Traditional practitioners play a vital role in South Africa’s health landscape. According to Collins, 98% of communities consult traditional and spiritual healers before turning to formal medical services.
“Our people don’t even want to consult the medical doctors. They believe that when they consult spiritual leaders, they’re the ones who can truly help or assist them,” he said.
For years, Collins and others have worked without recognition or resources. This conference represents not only a step forward but a call to action for government and stakeholders.
Funding Falls Short
Despite extended invitations and funding requests, support from key departments like Health and Agriculture never materialised. As a result, the event faced several logistical challenges.
“We expected 250 people to attend,” Collins explained. “But only 102 could make it. Many couldn’t travel due to financial problems. We struggled with accommodation, transport, and catering.” The association is a non-profit organisation, run by dedicated individuals—many of whom operate without any formal income.
“Some of us don’t even have an income,” Collins said. “Still, we do what we can, because we believe in our purpose and the people we serve.”
A Vision Rooted in Ancestry
Looking ahead, Collins sees a future where traditional healing stands alongside modern medicine—not in opposition but in partnership.
“In a modernising world, I see a bigger picture,” he said. “Our future is in our ancestors and our hands, in their spirits. Because we believe in them. And it’s not to say we praise them—but we listen, we honour, and we follow their guidance.”
Despite the hurdles, the message from Kimberley is clear: Traditional health practitioners are here to lead, heal, and advocate for the communities they’ve always served.
“This is only the beginning,” Collins said.
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