Christian Medical Mission from the Perspective of Batswana Faith Healers

Abstract

This article examines views of Batswana faith healers on medication and Christian medical mission in a context where official health policy generally does not recognize alternative health systems. It is based on fieldwork among Batswana designed to establish the impact of religion on those who seek healing and on health providers. Overall, the study established that faith healers do not discourage their clients from taking modern medication. They strongly believe, however, that faith healing contributes significantly to healing and health and needs to be recognized in the country’s health policy; they support and encourage collaboration between themselves and modern medical practitioners.