Examining the complementarity between biomedicine and ethnomedicine in Mozambique: A qualitative research approach

Background: In Mozambique, Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) emerges as a fundamental element in promoting neonatal health, lying at the intersection of health care policies and the effectiveness of their implementation in communities. Given the complexity of barriers to exclusive breastfeeding, the objective of this study was to identify the assumptions for the complementarity between biomedicine and ethnomedicine aiming to strengthen the national health system policy in the Mozambique context. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was carried out in Mozambique. A total of 30 lactating mothers (aged 18 to 43) ; 15 health care professionals ( aged 23-57) and 9 traditional medicine practitioners (healers/elders) aged (28 to 69) participated in the study; and data was collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews. Results: The study identified that EBF emerged not only as a globally recommended nutritional practice but also as a mandatory practice with hard social and cultural beliefs. Additionally key findings showed that the practice of healers needs to be seen as a gift that goes beyond the domain and execution of biomedical technique, emphasizing the importance of relationships and symbolism in social life. Conclusion: The study findings highlight the relevance of traditional practices not only as cultural heritage but also as vital elements for understanding contemporary Mozambican society.