Dr Ramokone Maphoto, Senior Pathologist in Virology at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), stands as a key figure in South Africa’s ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS. With a career built on scientific excellence and a commitment to public health, Maphoto is making significant contributions to diagnostics, research, and community empowerment.
Based within SMU’s Department of Virology, Maphoto’s work spans cutting-edge laboratory science and practical healthcare solutions. She currently leads the Clinical Virology Research Unit, a newly established facility dedicated to advancing the understanding of viral infections. The unit’s mandate focuses on diagnostics, treatment, prevention, and innovative research that integrates laboratory findings with clinical application.
“Science is not only about discovery but about making a real impact on people’s lives,” says Maphoto. “At SMU, we’re uniquely positioned to bridge laboratory research and frontline healthcare, especially in addressing HIV/AIDS challenges.”
Her role also extends to academic leadership as an active member of the Departmental Research Committee, where she serves as Deputy Chair on rotation. This involvement allows her to influence the strategic direction of virology research and foster collaboration among researchers and clinicians.
SMU’s Virology Department plays a critical role in South Africa’s health system, providing essential HIV testing and treatment monitoring services to vulnerable communities. Under Maphoto’s guidance, the laboratory operates around the clock, utilising advanced automated HIV testing technologies to increase capacity and deliver timely, accurate results.
“Timely viral load testing is essential for managing treatment effectively,” explains Maphoto. “It helps detect treatment failure early, ensuring patients receive appropriate care to suppress the virus and reduce transmission.”
Beyond the lab, Maphoto is passionate about education and capacity building. She mentors and trains medical registrars, honours, and master’s students, nurturing the next generation of virologists who will continue to strengthen South Africa’s HIV response.
However, Maphoto recognises that the fight against HIV/AIDS is about more than medicine and technology. Stigma remains a significant barrier to care, and she is dedicated to community outreach and education initiatives that challenge misconceptions and encourage people to seek testing and treatment.
“Breaking down stigma is critical,” she asserts. “Education empowers people to make informed decisions and access the healthcare they need without fear or shame.”
Maphoto’s work exemplifies the integration of scientific innovation, public health commitment, and compassionate leadership. Her efforts not only enhance diagnostic services but also shape policy and practice, supporting South Africa’s goal of ending the HIV epidemic.
“At SMU, we believe in health equity as a responsibility,” she says. “I’m proud to contribute to this mission by advancing research and ensuring every patient’s right to quality care is respected.”
In a country grappling with the world’s largest HIV epidemic, access to reliable testing and treatment is more critical than ever. At the heart of this fight is SMU, where science, research, and compassion converge to tackle the HIV/AIDS crisis head-on.
By Dimakatso Modise
