Just In: Coronavirus Cure Not Taken Seriously Because It’s From Africa Says Madagascar President
Madagascar’s President has said that the herbal remedy which he claims can cure the coronavirus is not being taken seriously by the world because it originated in Africa.
The alleged cure, Covid-Organics is made from the artemisia plant – the source of an ingredient used in a malaria treatment – and other Malagasy plants.
AFP reports that Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina on Monday batted away criticism for promoting a homegrown “remedy” for COVID-19, charging that the West has a condescending attitude toward traditional African medicine.
“If it wasn’t Madagascar, and if it was a European country that had actually discovered this remedy, would there be so much doubt? I don’t think so,” he told French media in an interview.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly warned that the Covid-Organics infusion, which Rajoelina has touted as a remedy against the deadly coronavirus, has not been clinically tested.
“African scientists… should not be underestimated,” he told France 24 and Radio France International (RFI).
“I think the problem is that (the drink) comes from Africa and they can’t admit… that a country like Madagascar… has come up with this formula to save the world,” said Rajoelina, who claims the infusion cures patients within 10 days.
Already Equatorial Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Niger and Tanzania have taken delivery of consignments of the potion, which was launched last month.
“No country or organisation will keep us from going forward,” Rajoelina said in response to the WHO’s concerns.
He said proof of the tonic’s efficacy was in “the healing of our sick”.
Madagascar has officially reported 183 coronavirus infections and 105 recoveries, with no deaths.
“The patients who were cured were cured through the administration of Covid-Organics alone,” the president said.
He referred to the remedy as “an improved traditional medicine”, adding that Madagascar was not conducting clinical trials but “clinical observations” in accordance with WHO guidelines.
