Indigenous biomedicine research centre: adaptable Architecture design for a traditional healing research centre in Emshinini township Mpumalanga

Abstract

Traditional medicine is a holistic type of healing, loosely called folk medicine;ethno-medicine or native healing is the oldest form. This dissertation proposes an Indigenous Biomedicine Research Centre that will break the current negative perceptions of traditional medicine. I will address the following Research question: How can a contemporary architectural approach be used to improve heterotopic spaces that currently facilitate the practice of traditional medicine rituals intending to work with the conventions of Western healthcare systems? The current spaces used for healing rituals need to be more dignified and promote indigenous healthcare systems. I aim to propose an indigenous healthcare facility that follows cultural rules, uses symbolic rituals, and offers opportunities for innovation and integration with biomedicine. I will use local precedents and conduct interviews with traditional healers about their vision of a contemporary “indumba” (rondavel)or traditional healthcare facility. This dissertation aims to create dignity and social recognition for traditional medicine in South Africa and Africa at large.