Health-related Beliefs and Practices towards Witchcraft in Tach Gayint District, northwest Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Socio-cultural beliefs heavily influence individuals' perceptions of health and illness, with witchcraft notably shaping how causation is attributed and impacting healthcare-seeking behavior and health outcomes.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to delve into the health-related beliefs and practices surrounding witchcraft in the Tach Gayint  district of northwest Ethiopia.

Methods: A qualitative study with a phenomenological approach was conducted in Tach Gayint district from April 15 to May 25, 2021. A  purposive sampling technique was employed to select individuals who have ever been witches, consulted witches for health-related  problems, and community and religious leaders. The collected data was transcribed in Amharic language, and translated to English. It  was then critically reviewed, combined into themes, and finally thematic analysis was done. 

Results: Health-related beliefs and practices  towards witchcraft are very common, especially in the rural subdistricts. The strong belief in ill health causedby supernatural forces like  ancestor spirits, evil eye, jinnee, and the act of witches themselves derives individuals from seeking treatment from witches. Witches try  to manage health problems by instructing patients to make the spirits that possessed them happy, animal sacrifice, and prayer ceremonies. 

Conclusion: Witchcraft is affecting the health care-seeking behavior of individuals, delaying medical treatment, and  ultimately contributing to permanent sequelae and death. Therefore, policymakers, healthcare authorities and providers, community and  religious leaders, and other sectors must struggle for it.