THE EFFECT OF DECOLONISATION OF MEDICAL KNOWLEDGE IN BAYELSA STATE

Abstract

Decolonisation of medical knowledge in Bayelsa State refers to the process of recovering, valuing, and integrating indigenous (traditional) healing systems of Nembe, Ijo, Epia–Atisa, and Ogbia, which were marginalised during colonial rule when Western biomedicine was imposed as the dominant form of healthcare. Its effects are both positive and complex, shaping healthcare, culture, and knowledge systems in the following: revival of Indigenous medical practices, integration with modern healthcare, improved accessibility and affordability, cultural identity and knowledge preservation, empowerment of local practitioners, challenges and risks, shift in health perspective (holistic view), and research and innovation opportunities.  This paper critically analyses those effects on culture (cultural revivalism), knowledge system and healthcare and the efficient integration of the traditional healing system of Nembe, Ijo, Epia – Atisa and Ogbia to allopathic (modern) healthcare requires careful regulation, documentation, and scientific validation to ensure safety and sustainability of the Bayelsa State health system. The key suggestion is, Bayelsa State government and the Ministry of Health should establish a policy enabling referrals between biomedical and traditional practitioners, recognize traditional healers through issues that involve spiritual and bone fractures and dislocations that are to be amputated, where Nembe, Ijo, Epia–Atisa, and Ogbia’s traditional healers have a competitive and comparative advantage.