The Nagoya Convention, Traditional Medicines, and Biopiracy in Angola: Challenges and Perspectives

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Nagoya Protocol, and the role of traditional medicine in Angola, with particular attention to the risks of biopiracy. Despite the fact that nearly 60% of the Angolan population relies on traditional medicine for primary health care, these practices remain vulnerable due to cultural erosion, lack of institutional recognition, and increasing global demand for biological resources. Although Angola ratified the Nagoya Protocol in 2014, the country still lacks a comprehensive national legal framework to regulate access to genetic resources and ensure fair and equitable benefit-sharing (ABS). Weak inter-institutional coordination and the absence of formal Prior Informed Consent (PIC) mechanisms further increase exposure to biopiracy. Using a qualitative approach—based on documentary research, legal analysis, and exploratory interviews with traditional practitioners and institutional actors—this study highlights both the central role and the fragility of traditional medicine in Angola. Comparative experiences from South Africa, Namibia, and Ethiopia show that clear laws, recognition of communities, and benefit-sharing agreements can mitigate risks while promoting sustainable innovation. The article concludes that Angola urgently needs inclusive policies and strong institutional capacity to protect its biocultural heritage, combat biopiracy, and promote sustainable development