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Madagascar President, Andry Rajoelina on Monday pushed back the criticism of his country for promoting a homegrown “remedy” for coronavirus, saying the West has a condescending attitude toward traditional African medicine.
In an interview with France 24 and Radio France International (RFI), Rajoelina said: “If it wasn’t Madagascar, and if it was a European country that had actually discovered this remedy, would there be so much doubt? I don’t think so.”
The World Health Organizatio(WHO) has repeatedly warned that the COVID-Organics infusion, which Rajoelina has touted as a remedy against the deadly coronavirus, has not been clinically tested.
The drink is derived from artemisia , a plant with proven anti-malarial properties and other indigenous herbs.
“African scientists should not be underestimated.
“I think the problem is that (the drink) comes from Africa and they can’t admit that a country like Madagascar has come up with this formula to save the world,” said Rajoelina.
He claimed the infusion cures patients within 10 days.
Already, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Niger and Tanzania have taken delivery of consignments of the potion, which was launched last month.
Speaking on WHO’s concerns, he said: “No country or organisation will keep us from going forward,” adding, “proof of the tonic’s efficacy was in the healing of our sick”.
Madagascar has officially reported 183 coronavirus infections and 105 recoveries, with no deaths.
“The patients who were cured were cured through the administration of Covid-Organics alone,” the president said.
He referred to the remedy as “an improved traditional medicine,” adding that Madagascar was not conducting clinical trials but “clinical observations” in accordance with WHO guidelines.
(AFP)