Ethiopia should introduce acupuncture treatment throughout the nation as part of the initial steps to rescue people affected by a broad range of diseases. It is abundantly clear that in the present climate, acupuncture, as repeatedly proven, has been effective in relieving pain and enhancing health outcomes in many. More to the point, by providing acupuncture, public health would have a marvelous effect giving hope and relief to many grappling with chronic conditions.
Although we have Chinese businesses involved in various activities in Ethiopia, I have not witnessed any that deal with traditional Chinese medicine or acupuncture treatment. This is surprising because acupuncture and related treatments could be valuable options for many patients. It would be wonderful if initiatives were underway to introduce such healing methods to Ethiopia in view of the fact that they might benefit people suffering from various diseases.
I strongly believe that Chinese acupuncture and traditional medicine are among the best treatments for the reason that patients can get relief immediately and recover sooner with these methods.
To get back to my point, just a couple of days ago, I had the privilege to take part in an exciting world of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)–not an ordinary introduction but a full-fledged cultural immersion course specially designed for foreign journalists. The session which was organized by the International Press Center of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China was out of this world.
Notwithstanding the fact that I know the benefits of the traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture, the event was a testament to what extent this form of medicine has become advanced. As a matter of fact, the history and the wisdom that come with these treatments are mind-blowing and more than I could ever explain in words. It was a wonderful experience that once again opened my eyes to this ancient healing system.
It is learnt that Chinese culture has a long history and the Chinese medicine is extensive and profound. China is one of the countries with ancient civilization in the world. In its long course of development, there formed and deposited a unique traditional culture of Chinese nation. The culture of traditional Chinese medicine is the unique cognitive wisdom and the crystallization concerning the human and nature, the life and health and disease. Thus, it is an important part of human brilliant civilization. It made significant contribution to the survival and reproduction of human.
Chinese medicine is, not only a unique health sector, a huge potential economic resource, a science and technology resource with the advantage of original creation, but also an important ecological resource, and excellent cultural resource of the country. Traditional Chinese medicine develops its own school in the world with its unique nationality and regionalism, inheritance, inclusion and identity, becoming a visiting card and guide of the country’s culture going to the world.
Bringing the discussion back to the main topic, on our arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the doctors at Chinese Massage Hospital. After that they narrated the history of Chinese massage and acupuncture treatment in a very engaging way. They clarified how both these concepts started and developed through the passage of time.
By the same token, the doctors elaborated how acupuncture can be applied to reduce pain, aid digestion, relieve stress and countless other issues. I was completely amazed by the entire experience in view of the fact that traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture have grown and improved beyond anyone’s imagination. We also witnessed a lively table displaying different types of traditional medicine each serving a different purpose.
Such treatments have more therapeutic potential than most drugs, yet few understand their uses or how quickly they can be effective.
The doctors were so dedicated and never seemed to get tired of sharing their knowledge in such a pleasant and witty manner. They answered all our questions patiently and were constantly making sure that we understood everything. There was also a young lady who served as our interpreter translating what the doctors told us in Chinese to English and Arabic making it simple for us to keep up.
We were then offered a choice between two options: we could have acupuncture or a massage. We were all delighted. It was an honor to see how they were conducted firsthand and to feel their benefits.
The people who chose to undergo acupuncture were initially terrified when they saw the needles. Some of them were laughing until their sides shook at the sight of journalists afraid of the needles. Their frights soon vanished and were replaced by a sense of calmness subsequent to the treatment which was astounding to witness.
This sudden change of mood was intriguing as everyone began to reflect on what they needed and what they would enjoy receiving from the experience. In the end, we were all comforted by the traditional approach each one of us getting what we needed. The doctors thoroughly examined tracing their fingers along our nerves. In a matter of minutes, they pinpointed where we were experiencing pain. It was incredible to see how quickly they diagnosed the issue we were facing.
According to a source, the origin of acupuncture can be traced back to the distant primitive society. It was produced at the beginning of formation of human civilization, and constantly improved and progressed in medical practice. From the ancient records of the use of “stone needle”, Fu Xi” tasted various grasses and made nine needles,” to the theory system of channels and collaterals and a unique system of diagnosis and treatment, acupuncture has experienced thousands of years of its development history.
One thing that did come to mind is why acupuncture treatments are not utilized to help people in need with illness of any type in Ethiopia. It is abundantly clear that in the modern age, people have been fighting with many diseases and health problems. But incorporating acupuncture into Ethiopia can become a vital option for the well-being of its citizens.
In the same way, acupuncture is a tried method that has helped many people worldwide and its use in Ethiopia can become a great reliever for people enduring chronic pain and other conditions. In order to make this a reality, we need to have in place functional channels that will promote and strengthen traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture into the Ethiopian healthcare system.
This could involve educating practitioners within the country on these practices, establishing clinics, raising awareness and other related aspects. Besides, relevant authorities and institutions should collaborate in the establishment of Chinese acupuncture and medicine centers throughout the country.
In the same way, it is important that we act quickly in order to allow Ethiopians to benefit from this beneficial method. Nowadays, Ethiopians are spending a lot of money on foreign treatments for illnesses and other health conditions. With the availability of Chinese acupuncture and traditional medicine in our own country, we can make healthcare affordable and accessible to all.
With the application of acupuncture therapy in various regions of Ethiopia, patients with various diseases can manage their conditions. With this integrated approach, complementary medical care will be given to patients, and they will be capable of exerting greater control over their conditions. As such, most of these patients will be capable of beginning their lives in terms of being more productive and their better health. Accessibility of acupuncture not only enhances pain but also wellbeing, and that the community becomes healthier in Ethiopia.
Having acupuncture facilities and traditional healing facilities within our own communities where anyone can avail themselves of these types of healing approaches mean a lot to the people of Ethiopia. By implementing this practice in our nation, we will be able to achieve better health for many people and have a greater insight into holistic healing methods. Needless to say, this could lead to healthier populations and an overall rise in the level of living for all Ethiopians.
BY ADDISALEM MULAT
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 28 MARCH 2025
