11/11/2025
🌍A Historic Milestone for South Africa and the Continent. 👏
Today, Biovac, in partnership with the
South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), officially launched the clinical trial of the Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV-S). This is South Africa's first self-made vaccine to start trial.
Hosted at the Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU) at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto, this landmark event brought together leaders from South African government, local & global science communities, and other participants to global health initiatives. Amongst our esteemed guests were the Honourable Minister of the Department of Health South Africa, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, and the Honourable Deputy Minister of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, (DSTI), Dr Nomalungelo Gina.
Our OCV-S project marks a major leap toward Africa’s scientific independence and vaccine self-reliance, made possible through the tech-transfer collaboration with the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) and support from the Gates Foundation, Wellcome Trust, Open Philanthropy, and the ELMA Foundation.
"Our OCV vaccine, represents more than science, it represents hope, resilience, and Africa’s capacity to protect its own,” says Dr Morena Makhoana, CEO of Biovac.
Professor Glenda Gray, South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Chief Scientific Officer said: “We are honoured to lead the clinical trials for the Oral Cholera Vaccine, a historical landmark for our country and a vital step in strengthening our country’s ability to respond to infectious diseases."
The OCV-S clinical trial embodies Biovac’s evolution from vaccine distributor, in its earlier days, to TODAY being a full-scale vaccine developer and manufacturer, reinforcing our commitment to advancing Africa’s health security and innovation ecosystem.
Last, but certainly not least, this milestone was made possible by , through the power of UBUNTU, the hours of unseen preparation, precision, compliance, coordination, and overall talent & passion that each of you bring every day. We thank you, for your generous contribution to the team. Together, we’re building a future where vaccines for Africa are made in Africa.
What an incredible and giant leap forward for local healthcare
This is African science. African innovation. African impact.
Watch the Highlights on Youtube:
Full Launch Ceremony: https://lnkd.in/dTZsKAFW
Live Vaccine Administration Demonstration, lead by Professor Gray: https://lnkd.in/dDbTVYwQ
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