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SACEMA has received the Societal Impact Award at the Cape Chamber of Commerce and IndustryÂ’s Academic Innovation Awards for its impactful work in infectious disease modelling. The centre has played a pivotal role in shaping public health strategies and training epidemiological experts across Africa.

Prof Frank Tanser, Director at SACEMA receiving the award. Photo: supplied

The South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA) has been awarded the Societal Impact Award at the Cape Chamber of Commerce and IndustryÂ’s inaugural Academic Innovation Awards. This recognition, presented in partnership with the Cape Higher Education Consortium (CHEC), highlights SACEMAÂ’s role in translating research into real-world impact.

For nearly two decades, SACEMA has been at the forefront of infectious disease modelling, informing public health policies on HIV, TB, COVID-19, and more. Its work has shaped national and global strategies, influencing organisations like the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). Beyond research, SACEMA has trained hundreds of postgraduate students and health officials across Africa, strengthening epidemiological expertise in the region.

“Innovation in understanding health and responding effectively to epidemics is not just a public health priority—it’s an economic necessity,” says Prof. Frank Tanser, SACEMA Director. “Our work ensures that policymakers and healthcare leaders have the data-driven insights needed to mitigate economic losses tied to disease outbreaks.”

South Africa faces a high burden of infectious diseases, particularly HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, which significantly impact healthcare costs and workforce productivity (UNAIDS, WHO). By developing models that predict disease spread and evaluate cost-effective interventions, SACEMA contributes to reducing healthcare strain and supporting economic stability. Its research ensures that public health decisions are informed by data-driven insights, fostering long-term financial resilience.

“SACEMA plays a crucial role in improving public health policies by providing data-driven insights on HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases. Its research helps optimize treatment programs, guiding the rollout of ART and PrEP to reduce transmission rates, this recognition is well deserved” said Prof. Eugene Cloete, CEO of CHEC.

This award underscores SACEMAÂ’s commitment to advancing science that directly benefits communities and public health systems, reinforcing its role as a leader in epidemiological research and innovation. As part of the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University, SACEMA continues to drive cutting-edge research and capacity building to improve public health outcomes across Africa.

More about SACEMA:

https://www.sacema.org/news/

News date: 2025-03-25

Links:

https://www.sacema.org/news/