South African public health care pioneers honoured by Harvard Magazine

By Wanique Block

Harvard Public Health Magazine has honoured and highlighted 25 pioneers and stand-out voices who have reshaped public health policies and practices across the African continent.

Among the 25 voices that were highlighted, the prestigious magazine has honoured various South African pioneers like Professor Salim Abdool Karim, who is well known for his work in the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis.

“Karim’s clinical research revealed that antiretrovirals can prevent sexually transmitted HIV infection and genital herpes in women”, Harvard magazine shared.

Alongside Prof. Salim Karim, University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Drug Discovery and Development Centre Director, Professor Kelly Chibale was also honoured for his contributions to drug discovery in Africa.

South African HIV Scientist Professor Quarraisha Abdool Karim was honoured for developing HIV prevention solutions for women since 1990 when she led the country’s first community-based HIV prevalence study.

Prof. Quarraisha Karim has also developed several woman-controlled HIV prevention methods, including vaginal microbicides and rings infused with antiretrovirals.

Anti-Apartheid activist and doctor Helen Ross was also honoured by Harvard magazine.

Helen has led the Reproductive Health and HIV Institute at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg since 1994 and has served on a multitude of global health advisory bodies and committees on vaccines.

Written by: Wanique

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