Wits RHI
Wits RHI at 30 Years
For 30 years, Wits RHI has been at the heart of ground breaking research and unwavering commitment to improving public health. What started as a dream has blossomed into an extraordinary journey of impact, innovation, and hope. For three decades, Wits RHI has been a beacon of hope, not only for South Africa but for the world.
Our research has given voice to the voiceless, brought life-saving healthcare to the most vulnerable, and stood at the forefront of the fight against HIV, TB, and other public health challenges.
Every study, every program, every partnership—has been rooted in our unwavering belief in the dignity and potential of every human being.
The spirit of collaboration and a shared vision of a healthier, more equitable world has been our guiding light. Our successes are woven from the threads of their passion, resilience, and dedication.
Here’s to 30 years of courage, collaboration, and care. Here’s to 30 years of turning science into life-changing solutions. Here’s to 30 years of Wits RHI—where research meets the heart.
30 years of excellence
1994
Founded Reproductive Health Research Unit with DFID & Kaiser funding.
1995
Microbicide trial begins with sex workers in Johannesburg.
2000
RHRU becomes an official research unit of the Wits Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
2002
Awarded WHO Collaborating Centre Status
2003
Establish partnership with COJ and the Gauteng Department of Health to create the Hillbrow Health Precinct (HHP) in the inner city of Johannesburg
2004
Received first PEPFAR grant.
2006
Moved national office to Hillbrow, where offices, research space for clinical trials, a major training centre and a community care centre are established
2007
First NIH Clinical Trials Unit Award granted.
2010
RHRU granted institute status by the University, and renamed Wits RHI.
2012
The flagship Shandukani Maternal and Child Health Centre opens its doors in July.
2014
Wits RHI celebrates its 20th year anniversary and is awarded UNAIDS Collaborating Centre Status.
2015
Wits RHI becomes a UNFPA strategic partner. Appointed a South African Medical Research Council (MRC) Collaborating Centre in HIV and TB.
2016
Renewed WHO Collaborating Centre Status.
2019
Wits RHI celebrates 25 years of an unparalleled track record of conducting world class research, implementing sustainable programmes and contributing to health policy.
2020
Wits RHI is actively involved in an effort to curb the COVID-19 pandemic that is facing South Africa and the world at large. The institute’s directors are currently involved in a total of 15 COVID-19 studies and initiatives.
2021
Wits RHI is linked to many COVID-19 vaccine related studies. Our staff complement is over 1800.
2022
Operation Gophelega kicked off and is one of the largest grants Wits RHI has ever received from the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
We asked what makes YOU part of Wits RHI’s family?
Wits RHI is more than an institute – it’s a family. A family that has grown over the years, united by our shared vision for a better tomorrow. Below you will find the answers from each person when you scroll over their selfie below. Use the search bar if you know of a specific person who told you they submitted their selfie and answer. if you just want more content then use the load more button or refresh the page and a new set of selfies will be loaded.
Jabulane Mulambo
Hillbrow site
The institute is built on a sense of collective common purpose and drive, with one outcome which is to build a more healthier society.
Dorothy Machemedze
Epidemiologist/Biostatistician
Hillbrow site
A Biostatistician within the dynamic Research Team focusing on addressing critical public health challenges by advancing research on HIV treatment and prevention, the epidemiology and clinical management of STIs. Important highlights are the opportunity to co-author and publish peer-reviewed manuscripts and participate in international conferences.
Sean Arries
Project Manager training and mentoring
Blackwood, Parktown, Johannesburg
My race and sexual orientation has never player any role in the company and that made me feel free to be myself.
Elizea Horne
Senior Medical Officer
Shandukani, Hillbrow, Johannesburg, Gauteng
My genuine commitment and unwavering passion lie in driving meaningful improvements in maternal and child health outcomes.
Sihle Zulu
Study Coordinator
Esselen Street, Hillbrow, Johannesburg, Gauteng
Wits RHI family offers incredible opportunities to contribute to its goals while receiving recognition and celebrating milestones together. The focus on growth and development makes me feel truly valued. Most importantly, the strong sense of teamwork extends beyond the workplace, exemplified by the organization’s support for social sports teams!
Arabang Letebele
Chief of Party (APACE)
Welkom, Free State
I am happy to be part on an institute that is a recognized leader in science, research and innovation – nationally and internationally. Teamwork and Excellence give me a sense of pride. We win together, grow and build together – that’s what makes me part of Wits RHI family!
Xavie Malgas
Hillbrow, Hugh Solomon Building
It is goal driven and strive for great results to support the Mission & Vision .
Precious Motha
Communications Department
We support each other, share a common goal, and work together to address critical health challenges.
Glynis Moll
Operations
Blackwood, Parktown, Johannesburg
I have been part of this special organisation for over 16 years. I love that everyone is valued and respected!
Lwazikazi Manala
Wits RHI Communications Department
I am proud to belong to Wits RHI because I help communicate important health research to the public, making information about HIV, sexual health, and TB prevention accessible.
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Established in 1994, Wits RHI is part of the Faculty of Health Sciences and the largest research institute of the University of the Witwatersrand.