The President of South African, Cyril Ramaphosa, visited the Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI) facility at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital on 24 June 2025, and described it as a world-class example of public sector innovation and scientific excellence.

NuMeRI is the only facility of its kind in Africa dedicated to nuclear medicine for drug development, diagnostic imaging and clinical research. It operates through a partnership between the Department of Health, the Department of Science and Innovation and the University of Pretoria, with support from the private sector.

“I have seen the best today,” said President Ramaphosa, who was accompanied by the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, and Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko. “I have seen how you respect one another, how you recognise one another, and the diversity that I’ve seen here has been most impressive.”

The President commended Steve Biko Academic Hospital's  inclusive staff members, highlighting the presence of young professionals, women in senior positions and a strong culture of inter-disciplinary collaboration. He said the facility represented the highest standard of public healthcare and should serve as a national model.

President Ramaphosa also visited the hospital’s cardiac cathetherisation laboratory, which is part of the radiology department. The site visit was aimed at highlighting South Africa’s commitment to scientific innovation, equitable access to healthcare and integrated infrastructure investment.

Board Chairperson of Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Lwazi Koyana, welcomed the President’s visit as a significant moment for public health and research in South Africa. “Your visit here today is not just a ceremonial moment. It is a profound recognition of the vital role that nuclear medicine is set to play going forward in improving healthcare outcomes in our nation,” he said.

 “Your presence affirms the value of scientific innovation, the importance of public health and the commitment to advancing medical technology for the betterment of all citizens,” Koyana said.

He thanked the President for taking the time to tour the NuMeRi facility and meet staff, researchers and hospital leadership. “Your words of encouragement and your vision for a healthier, stronger nation have inspired all of us,” he said.

Professor Mike Sathekge, Head of Nuclear Medicine at the University of Pretoria and CEO of NuMeRI, said the facility was established to close the gap between innovation and access.

“Our goal is to ensure that cutting-edge nuclear medicine is not reserved for a few, but made accessible to the many,” he said. “This facility gives us the tools to detect disease earlier, treat it more precisely, and reduce the burden on patients and the healthcare system. It’s about equity, scientific excellence and saving lives.”

President Ramaphosa concluded his visit by praising the teams behind the facility’s success. “I came, I saw and I was most impressed. Thank you very much.”