Professors Salim Abdool Karim and Keertan Dheda were honoured by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for their outstanding contributions to public health
May 20, 2026: Two internationally recognised Indian-origin scientists, Salim Abdool Karim and Keertan Dheda, were among 38 recipients of South Africa’s highest civilian honours awarded by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria. Both scientists received the prestigious Order of Mapungubwe for their exceptional contributions to medical science, public health and research benefiting South Africa and the global community.
Karim was conferred the Order of Mapungubwe in Gold for his pioneering work in HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis research, as well as his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. The citation praised his role in shaping South Africa’s science-based public health response and his work as Director of the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa. Though unable to attend the ceremony, Karim dedicated the honour to his research teams and patients involved in the studies.
Dheda received the Order of Mapungubwe in Silver for his groundbreaking research in pulmonology and drug-resistant respiratory infections. Based at the University of Cape Town, Dheda currently heads several research and medical institutions focused on tuberculosis and lung infections. He described the award as motivation to continue advancing tuberculosis diagnostic innovation and promoting health equity in high-burden communities. President Ramaphosa said the achievements of the awardees highlighted South Africa’s growing reputation as a global centre for scientific and medical excellence.