Professor Raphael Nyarkotey Obu has become the first Naturopath to become a lawyer in Africa.
The professor made history by becoming the first naturopath in Africa to be called to the Gambia Bar.
A naturopath is a person who treats illnesses using natural foods, herbs, and various other techniques, rather than artificial drugs.
Professor Raphael Nyarkotey Obu is well known for his outstanding dedication to progressing healthcare through both legal and technological frameworks, he is a pioneer in a new era of traditional and naturopathic medicine.
At just 39 years old, he is already transforming healthcare across the continent and using his legal expertise to shape a regulatory framework for traditional and complementary medicine, bringing a new level of professional credibility and public trust to the field.
Prof. Nyarkotey has supported traditional healers in the Gambia and pioneered evidence-based naturopathic medicine. He also used his legal training days to raise awareness of Gambia’s forgotten herbs and made them popular through his scientific writing. He has authored so many legal commentaries on the regulatory legislative framework on traditional and naturopathic medicines in the Gambia and Africa.
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu stated, “With my legal qualifications, I aim to work with various African governments and health organizations to create a unified framework that supports traditional and complementary medicine”.
“There is a growing demand for these practices, yet the lack of regulation often leads to misuse and public skepticism. My goal is to bring about a change in how these treatments are perceived and implemented, safeguarding public health and honoring African traditions”, he added.
Prof. Nyarkotey’s journey, from founding Ghana’s first naturopathic school to joining the Gambia Bar, reflects his drive to secure a place for traditional and naturopathic medicine in Africa’s healthcare landscape, building a future where it is both accessible and regulated.
