SACEMA Honored for Societal Impact

The South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA) has been awarded the Societal Impact Award at the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s inaugural Academic Innovation Awards. This recognition, presented in partnership with the Cape Higher Education Consortium (CHEC), highlights SACEMA’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.”

“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.