THE INTERFACE BETWEEN TRADITIONAL HEALTH CARE AND WESTERN MEDICAL CARE AMONG THE OKUN-YORUBA OF KABBA PROVINCE, 1935-1967

Abstract

This study examines the historical development of Western medical care among the Okun-Yoruba people of Kabba Province, Nigeria, and its interface with traditional healthcare. It considers the motivations behind the introduction of Western medical care by British colonial authorities and missionary societies, the challenges faced in establishing Western medical centres, and the impact on traditional medical practices. The study draws on available literature for historical examination. Findings suggest that missionary societies established Western medical centres, language barriers constrained British colonial medical initiatives, and Western medical care functioned as an instrument of colonisation that marginalised traditional medical practice.