Kegomoditswe Malebo, a PhD candidate in Medical Virology at the University of the Free State (UFS), says being recognised as a finalist in the 2025 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA), is especially meaningful in terms of representation, reflecting the capability and excellence of African women scientists in global health research. 

These awards is a flagship initiative by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), and has recognised and celebrated women’s achievements to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). SAWiSA also raises the profile of outstanding researchers to serve as role models for the next generation of young women and girls and inspire them to pursue careers in science. The theme for the 2025 SAWiSA event is “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science”. 

“Being named a SAWiSA finalist is both humbling and empowering. It affirms that the long hours, challenges, and sacrifices of research are worthwhile, highlighting the value of my work and its potential to contribute to clinical solutions for emerging diseases. 

“It reassures me that my work is scientifically relevant and has real-world impact, inspiring me to continue to push boundaries while knowing that my contributions matters and that representation in science can motivate the next generation,” says Malebo, who obtained her BSc in Genetics and Microbiology in 2018 from UFS and her BMedSc Honours in Infectious Diseases & Immunology in 2020. 

After obtaining her Master of Medical Sciences in Medical Virology with distinction from the University of Cape Town in 2023, she contributes to undergraduate teaching through the Centre for Teaching and Learning at the UFS and to the training of postgraduate students, supporting the development of the next generation of scientists.

A desire to address health challenges 

According to Malebo, she chose this field of study because she has always been driven by curiosity and a commitment to understanding biological systems, growing up in a context where practical solutions were essential. Her pursuit of science, particularly infectious disease research, is motivated by a desire to address health challenges that disproportionately affect vulnerable communities in Africa. “I am passionate about translating rigorous research into meaningful, locally relevant solutions, while contributing to scientific knowledge, public health preparedness, and the representation of African women in science.”

Her research focuses on Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever Virus (CCHFV), a deadly tick-borne virus with no approved vaccines or treatments and a fatality rate of up to 40%. She is developing monoclonal antibodies from a South African survivor that could potentially be used for diagnostics or therapeutic interventions. Ultimately, her work aims to support future outbreak preparedness and create accessible, locally relevant solutions for infectious disease control in Africa.

Her supervisor, Dr Nigel Makoah, a lecturer in the Division of Virology within the UFS Faculty of Health Sciences, expressed pride in her achievement: “Kego’s recognition as a SAWiSA finalist is a testament to her exceptional dedication, scientific excellence, and commitment to solving urgent public health challenges. It is inspiring to see her work – rooted in African realities – gain national recognition, and I have no doubt her contributions will resonate far beyond our borders.”

Reflecting on the support she has received, Malebo adds: “I am deeply grateful to be recognised as a SAWiSA finalist. I especially thank my family and friends, my supervisor, Dr Nigel Makoah, multiple collaborators, funders – particularly the UFS Directorate of Research Development stakeholders, and the study donors who make my research possible. This recognition reinforces the importance of resilience, curiosity, and collaboration in scientific discovery and highlights the critical role of women in driving innovation and advancing science,” said Malebo. 

According to the DSTI, this year, 30 outstanding finalists have been selected across four categories: Distinguished Women Researchers, Distinguished Young Women Researchers, Doctoral Fellows, and Master’s Fellows. Their groundbreaking work spans a wide range of fields, including public health, paediatrics, inclusive innovation, gender studies, religion, and the circular economy – reflecting the depth and diversity of women's contributions to science in South Africa.