The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission), in partnership with the Consulate General of India in Durban and the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, will host the India–South Africa Traditional Medicines Symposium and Exhibition from 10–11 October 2026 at the Archie Gumede Conference Centre in Durban.
Held under the theme “Traditional Medicines for a Healthier Future,” the symposium will bring together traditional health practitioners, indigenous knowledge holders, researchers, academics, policymakers and healthcare stakeholders from South Africa and India to promote dialogue, knowledge exchange and collaboration.
The CRL Rights Commission’s participation is guided by its constitutional mandate to protect and promote the cultural, religious and linguistic rights of communities. Traditional medicine represents a rich body of indigenous knowledge, cultural heritage and healing practices that have been preserved across generations.
The symposium will provide a platform to explore the preservation of traditional knowledge systems, medicinal plants, wellness, research, education and opportunities for cooperation between South Africa and India. It will also highlight the importance of protecting biodiversity and natural resources that underpin traditional medicinal knowledge.
The initiative promotes knowledge-sharing between South Africa and India while recognising the value of indigenous healing traditions. An accompanying exhibition will highlight traditional medicine systems, medicinal plants, wellness initiatives and research from both countries.
The CRL Rights Commission encourages traditional practitioners, researchers, students, media representatives and members of the public to participate in this important engagement.
Members of the media are requested to confirm attendance.
Issued by CRL Rights Commission
Mpiyakhe Mkholo – Mpiyakhem@crlcommission.org.za; 082 527 3859
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