Two Wits University chemists, Professors Kenneth Ikechukwu Ozoemena and Maya Makatini, have received awards from the South African Chemical Institute (SACI) for their outstanding research. Ozoemena won the Gold Medal for Chemistry, while Makatini received the Raikes Medal for promising research by members under 40.
Ozoemena’s Research
Ozoemena focuses on applying electrochemistry to real-world solutions, including advanced battery technologies for home, industry, and mobile use, as well as electrochemical sensors for detecting diseases like HPV and tuberculosis.
Makatini’s Research
Makatini designs peptides to target bacteria like TB and aid wound healing. She also works on diagnostic tools, collaborating with hospitals to develop kits for arsenic poisoning in miners and early kidney disease detection in diabetic patients.
Ozoemena & Makatini’s Views & Visions
Ozoemena sees the award as a validation of their work, competing globally despite limited access to critical research facilities. He is motivated by Africa’s potential to develop affordable, clean energy, citing its natural resources and young population.
Makatini’s interest in natural healing, inspired by her herbalist grandfather, influenced her research into the healing properties of natural substances.
Both researchers were nominated by their Head of School, Professor Charles de Koning, highlighting Wits University’s commitment to groundbreaking research in chemistry and its real-world applications.
Makatini’s childhood experiences with grinding leaves, influenced by her grandparents, shaped her research interests. The Wits FALF Award and Raikes Award affirm her work’s value and motivate her to push further.
These recognitions bring her closer to her dream of establishing a Mass Spectrometry lab, employing students and providing peptide design services within South Africa.
Prof Kenneth Ozoemena is optimistic about the future of electrochemical technologies in Africa. He notes the field’s growth over two decades and sees promising global trends:
- Demand for clean, affordable energy
- Increasing adoption of electric vehicles
- Rise of energy-intensive AI and portable electronics
- Need for portable diagnostic devices
With government and industry support, Ozoemena believes electrochemistry research in South Africa has a bright future, addressing these emerging needs and opportunities. For more on this story, click here.
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