Transformative Research
Leading transformative research in, and for Africa.
Our Research Chairs continuously convene large transdisciplinary groups of stakeholders to tackle the most persistent problems facing our world today. In doing this, Future Africa spearheads innovation when it comes to deploying transformative research, informs and supports policy and public action for equitable and sustainable African societies, and inspires science-based sustainability transformations elsewhere in the world.
People, Health and Places (One Health) Research Chair
The Future Africa Research Chair in People, Health, and Places (One Health) was the first research chair established at Future Africa in 2020. Held by Professor Wanda Markotter, the chair is instrumental in supporting and expanding One Health transdisciplinary research and activities across the University of Pretoria departments and faculties and between institutions, countries and continents. The (FA- One Heath) Chair provides leadership and creates opportunities and resources to enable this, and by bringing people together, real-world problems and changes in behaviour through transdisciplinary thinking will occur.
One Health is part of the Future Africa research themes and the University of Pretoria strategic plan. The definitions differ widely, but most agree it involves a collaborative, multisectoral, and transdisciplinary approach to achieve optimal health outcomes and recognise the interconnection between people, animals, plants, and their shared environment. Africa has unique challenges, and a One Health approach must consider the context locally, regionally and globally. Historically “One Health” has been mostly associated with emerging infectious diseases, food security and antimicrobial resistance; however, it is a much broader approach in collaborative effort and disciplines.

Research Chair
Prof Wanda Markotter
Future AfricaSustainable Food Systems Research Chair
The Future Africa Sustainable Food Systems Research Chair (FA-SFS) was established in January 2022 to advance the transformative potential of African sciences in building thriving African societies within a global context. The FA-SFS focuses on collaborative research aimed at addressing complex, real-world challenges related to sustainable food systems. The Sustainable Food Systems Research Chair was initially held by Prof Lindiwe Sibanda. She was succeeded by Prof Frans Swanepoel, who served in an acting capacity before his official appointment in November 2023.
Its objectives include:
- Conducting transdisciplinary research that integrates knowledge from the natural, social, and economic sciences to develop sustainable food systems solutions.
- Building a community of practice that connects researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders to facilitate knowledge exchange, co-creation of knowledge, and collaboration towards sustainable food systems.
- Advancing the professional development of early career researchers, students, and practitioners working in sustainable food systems through training and mentorship.
- Developing and sharing knowledge products, including research papers, policy briefs, and other publications, to inform and guide sustainable food systems policies and practices.
The current projects/programmes within the Chair all exemplify the transdisciplinary research approach and systems-oriented nature of the five research focal areas.

Research Chair
Prof Frans Swanepoel
Future AfricaSustainability Transformations Research Chair
The Future Africa Research Chair in Sustainability Transformations (FA- ST) is held by Professor Maano Ramutsindela, who was appointed on 1 April 2024. This pioneering joint appointment between the University of Pretoria and the University of Cape Town strengthens research on African science systems and sustainability. The Chair oversees Future Africa’s role in major international initiatives such as Future Earth, and the World Climate Research Programme, and secure synergies with the work of the University’s Centre for the Advancement of Scholarship on the UNESCO BRIDGES environmental humanities Coalition, as well as the Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute on the Sustainable Development Solutions Network. In addition, the Chair will contribute to a Sustainability PhD Global Collaborative Platform co-led by Future Africa (on behalf of the University of Pretoria) and the University of Montpellier in France.

Research Chair
Prof Maano Ramutsindela
Future Africa