Biovac opens new product development laboratory in Cape Town

The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, will deliver the keynote address at the opening of Biovac’s new product development laboratory in Cape Town on Thursday, 6 November.

The newly established high-tech laboratory at Biovac, a leading South African biopharmaceutical company, positions South Africa a step closer to achieving end-to-end vaccine manufacturing capability, moving beyond the current “fill and finish” stage.

This milestone supports the government’s broader goal of strengthening local pharmaceutical manufacturing and ensuring that South Africa and the continent are better prepared to respond to health emergencies with home-grown solutions.

The facility is equipped with mRNA technology and advanced research capacity, enabling the development of new drugs and vaccines targeting diseases prevalent in Africa.

The event will feature Mr Mark Suzman, CEO of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, hosted by Biovac’s CEO, Dr Morena Makhoana. Mr Suzman’s participation highlights the Foundation’s long-standing partnership with Biovac and commitment to advancing vaccine innovation and access across Africa.

Biovac is currently manufacturing vaccines for the Expanded Programme on Immunisation used by infants and children in the private and public sectors. The vaccine manufacturer is supported by the Government of South Africa, as well as the Gates Foundation and the Industrial Development Corporation.

Event Details
Date: Thursday, 6 November 2025
Time: 12:00 – 13:30. Please Arrive by 11:45
Venue: 15 Alexandra Road, Pinelands, Cape Town.

Media are requested to confirm attendance by Tuesday, 5 November 2025.

Issued by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation
Enquiries: Veronica Mohapeloa at 083 400 5750.