Decolonizing healthcare: the role of traditional medicine in building inclusive health systems for Cameroonian women

Abstract Background Despite progress in expanding formal healthcare services, large segments of the population in Cameroon—particularly women in rural and peri-urban communities—continue to rely on traditional medicine for their primary health needs. This research explores the intersection between gender, indigenous healing practices, and health economics, framed within the global movement to decolonize health systems. Specifically, this study investigates the socio-economic roles of traditional medicine for women in northwest, center, and southwest Cameroon, the systemic barriers they face in integrating their practices into formal healthcare, and how their experiences can inform the development of inclusive, culturally grounded, and sustainable health systems in Cameroon. Methods This qualitative study, employing a decolonial-feminist lens and critical theory, explores the potential of traditional medicine, as experienced and practiced by women in Cameroon, to contribute to more inclusive and decolonized health systems. Data was collected through participant observations and in-depth interviews with women traditional healers and users. A total of 30 respondents. Challenging the dominance of Western biomedicine, the research centers indigenous knowledge and women’s agency as healers and knowledge custodians. By valuing lived experiences and contextual understanding, this approach aims to identify pathways for equitable integration of women-led traditional healing practices into formal healthcare, fostering health system decolonization and gender justice. Results Traditional medicine plays a crucial economic and psychosocial role for women—as women-led caregivers and community health entrepreneurs, often providing vital income and social capital in resource-limited settings. However, legal exclusion, epistemic bias (undervaluing indigenous knowledge), and lack of integration into the national health policy create systemic barriers. Participants also expressed that traditional practices are not only therapeutic but symbolic of cultural identity, safety, and autonomy in decision-making—especially in maternal and reproductive health. Conclusion Integrating traditional medicine—through policy reform, education, and economic support—could significantly contribute to inclusive healthcare delivery in Cameroon, potentially improving healthcare access for marginalized women and fostering culturally relevant and sustainable health solutions. Specifically, our findings suggest the need for policies that facilitate formal recognition of women traditional healers and the establishment of collaborative frameworks between traditional and biomedical practitioners. This research highlights the need for policy shifts that recognize the value of women’s indigenous knowledge and facilitate their meaningful inclusion in national health systems.