Our Research Chairs
Future Africa’s Research Chairs provide academic leadership for the platform’s transdisciplinary research agenda. They lead collaborative programmes of work across various research themes, advancing research excellence and strengthening partnerships within the University of Pretoria, across Africa and internationally.
Working across disciplines, institutions and sectors, the Research Chairs bring together researchers, policymakers, government, civil society, industry and other stakeholders to co-create and advance transformative research that addresses Africa’s most pressing and complex challenges. Through these collaborations, they create opportunities for transdisciplinary research, training and knowledge exchange.
The Research Chairs also play a key role in developing emerging researchers and strengthening Africa’s research leadership capacity. Working with pan-African and global partners, they help shape research agendas, build networks of expertise and deliver high-impact research that contributes to sustainable development across the continent.
Health – People – Place (One Health)
The Future Africa Research Chair in Health, People and Places advances a collaborative, multisectoral and transdisciplinary approach to achieving optimal health outcomes by recognising the interconnections between people, animals, plants and their shared environment.
Research Chair
Prof Wanda Markotter
Sustainability Transformations in Africa
The Future Africa Research Chair in Sustainability Transformations advances transdisciplinary research and dialogues to understand and support the systemic changes needed for sustainability, equity, and justice in Africa.
Research Chair
Prof Maano Ramutsindela
Climate, Water and Food Nexus
The Future Africa Research Chair in Climate, Water and Food Nexus advances research on the interconnected challenges of climate change, water security and food security in Africa.
Research Chair
Prof Tafadzwanashe Mabhaudhi
Global Equity in Africa
The Future Africa Research Chair in Global Equity aims to promote global prosperity and peace by positioning Africa as a contributor, not just a beneficiary. Despite progress in reducing global poverty,sub-Saharan Africa still lags behind. The Chair will identify challenges and innovative solutions to achieve global equity, with a focus on Africa.
Research Chair
Vacant
Formerly led by Professor Dire Tladi
(2023)
Completed Chairs
Sustainable Food Systems
The Future Africa Sustainable Food Systems Research Chair (FA-SFS) was established in January 2022 to advance the transformative potential of African sciences in creating thriving African societies in a global context. The FA-SFS focuses on conducting collaborative research to address complex, real-world problems related to sustainable food systems.
Research Chair
Professor Frans Swanepoel
(2023 – 2025)
Prof Lindiwe Sibanda
(2022 – 2023)
