ZINATHA, ZRP moot joint operation against fake herbalists

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By Marlvin Ngiza

The Zimbabwe National Traditional Healers Association (ZINATHA) is at an advanc3d stage of joining the Zimbabwe republic Police (ZRP) in an operation meant to weed out unregistered herbalists in the country.

ZINATHA President George Kandiero told Spiked Online Media that their organization is making all efforts to engage the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in clearing off all illegal herbalists who are selling herbs that might pose serious harm to the health of the general populace.

“We are in the process of trying to team up with the police so that an operation is done to wipe out these unscrupulous people.

“We are also writing a letter to the council to instigate a probe on these people on the streets because it’s very dangerous to the general populace since some of these herbs are just picked up from low-lying areas in order to make money,” said Kandiero.

Kandiero warned unregistered herbalists to desist from such illicit operations vowing that the long arm of the law is ready to take its course.

“Let it be a warning to all of you unregistered herbalists that the long arm of the law is coming to pounce on you very soon.

“It has really got out of hand where herbs are being sold on the streets and in the toilets. There is an operation coming for you,” said Kandiero

Meanwhile, Kandiero urged the public to desist from buying herbs from unregistered herbalists citing that these herbalists put people’s lives at risk.

“Our advice to the general public is that be careful. Some of these herbs are sold at lower prices, bringing doubt to their efficacy and safety. Go to the formal outlets,” added Kandiero

Parliament Act 27.14 of 1997 stipulates that anyone practicing traditional medicine in Zimbabwe must possess a valid license and go under the scrutiny of organizations such as ZINATHA.