Africanised photographic processes for cultural continuity: exploring malaria traditional treatment in Banda Busujju, Mityana District

Abstract

This study investigated Africanised photographic processes to document traditional malaria treatments in Banda Busujju, Mityana District, Uganda. In Uganda, where malaria remained a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, local communities had long relied on indigenous knowledge for treatment. These traditional methods were not only critical for managing health but were also deeply woven into cultural identity. However, the rapid adoption of urban lifestyles and the effects of climate change threatened the preservation of this knowledge, risking the erasure of valuable cultural heritage. To address this, the research employed Africanised photographic techniques and methods tailored to capture the essence of indigenous practices within the context of local aesthetics and sensibilities. These techniques provided an alternative, culturally resonant way of recording and sharing the medicinal knowledge of herbal remedies, preparations, and healing rituals. The project was guided by ethnographic methodologies, combining visual documentation with interviews and field observations to holistically understand the cultural dimensions of the treatments. By visually capturing the therapeutic processes and community narratives, the research bridged the gap between traditional and modern knowledge systems, promoting cultural continuity. The study’s findings demonstrated the role of Africanised photography in safeguarding cultural heritage while offering insights into the efficacy and relevance of traditional malaria treatments. Additionally, the documentation fostered appreciation and preservation of this indigenous knowledge, providing a resource for future generations and healthcare practitioners interested in integrating traditional and modern treatment approaches. The outcome contributed to both cultural preservation and health innovation, underscoring the value of indigenous knowledge systems in contemporary contexts.