Let’s take a journey through time to uncover the surgical pioneers among African tribes who, long before modern medicine, crafted their own surgical traditions. These practices showed a profound understanding of the human body without a textbook. This was knowledge passed down to generations. From C-sections to amputations, African tribes were performing medical miracles in the context of today.

Banyole Tribe (Uganda)

In 1879, a British traveller, R.W. Felkin observed C-sections being performed by the Ugandan tribe Banyole. Traditionally, they had developed their own method of performing C-sections long before modern medicine introduced the procedure to the world. Their technique, which was passed down through generations, involved the use of rudimentary tools and a deep understanding of the human body. They would use banana wine to intoxicate the expectant mothers and as a method to cleanse his hands and abdomen before the surgery. And dress the wound with a paste prepared from roots.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Banyole approach to C-section surgery was their ability to achieve relatively high success rates without the advanced medical equipment and sterile conditions available in modern hospitals. This demonstrates the ingenuity and expertise of the Banyole people in the field of maternal healthcare.

Kisi Tribe (Kenya)

The Kisii tribe of Kenya has a unique tradition of performing traditional craniotomies, a surgical procedure involving the removal of a portion of the skull. They were known as ababari ernetwe which translates to surgeons of the skull. These craniotomies, performed using instruments and techniques that have been a part of Kisii culture for centuries. They were typically carried out to treat head injuries, manage head-related ailments, or address spiritual beliefs. Skilled practitioners within the community were responsible for performing these procedures, and they held a respected place in Kisii society.

Dogon Tribe (Mali)

The Dogon people of Mali have a long-standing tradition of surgical practices. Their expertise includes circumcision, dental surgery, and the treatment of fractures and dislocations. These techniques have been handed down through generations, preserving their surgical heritage.

Ancient Nubians (Sudan)

The Nubian people, who inhabited the region of Nubia in what is now Sudan, were early pioneers in various surgical procedures and medical practices.Nubian surgeons were skilled in removing tumours and growths from the body. Their surgical techniques for tumour excision demonstrated a high level of proficiency in surgery. They were also known to perform surgical amputations when necessary. This skill was particularly valuable in cases of severe injuries or infections where amputation was the only viable treatment option.

Nubian archaeological sites have revealed the medical tools and instruments that showcased their surgical advancements.

Routine surgery, as its name suggests, was also performed by many other tribes in pre-colonial times. For instance, the Khoisan of South Africa were skilled in tooth extraction, and the Hausa excelled in bone setting. It seems almost unimaginable to think that such intricate procedures were routinely performed outside of hospitals when we compare it to the sterile and medical developments of today. Which is why, it’s all the more impressive.