SA Honours Prof. Motaung: Nzimande Urges Scientists to Put Humanity First
In his address, Minister Nzimande emphasised that Professor Motaung embodied the principle that science must serve the people, and that scientific knowledge carries a profound ethical responsibility.
- Country:
- South Africa
South Africa’s scientific community gathered in Pretoria this week to honour the extraordinary life of Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung, a pioneering scientist, entrepreneur and mentor whose contributions have reshaped biotechnology innovation and inspired thousands of young researchers. Speaking at her memorial service, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, delivered a powerful tribute calling on scientists to follow her example by placing humanity, ethics and social impact at the centre of their work.
Professor Motaung, who passed away last week, leaves behind a formidable legacy that spans scientific research, entrepreneurship, leadership development and community upliftment.
A Legacy Rooted in Humanity and Responsibility
In his address, Minister Nzimande emphasised that Professor Motaung embodied the principle that science must serve the people, and that scientific knowledge carries a profound ethical responsibility.
“Our scientists and researchers must uphold the principle that scientific knowledge must be used responsibly and ethically,” he said. “This was at the core of Prof. Motaung’s life.”
The Minister called on South Africa’s research community to pursue innovations that address societal challenges rather than scientific advancement for its own sake.
Academic Leader, Innovator and Entrepreneur
Professor Motaung was widely recognised as a dynamic academic leader and a champion of women in science. She served as the Chair of the Female Academic Leaders Fellowship at Nelson Mandela University’s Research Chair in Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion, where she spearheaded research that bridged:
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Scientific innovation
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Commercialisation pathways
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Grassroots entrepreneurship
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Inclusive research leadership
Her work focused not only on generating knowledge, but also on ensuring that research leads to tangible economic and social benefits.
Founder of Global Health Biotech: Merging Indigenous Knowledge and Science
As the founder and CEO of Global Health Biotech, Professor Motaung became a trailblazer in turning scientific discovery into accessible healthcare products.
Her most celebrated achievement is the creation of the La-Africa Soother, a plant-based anti-inflammatory ointment derived from indigenous medicinal plants. The ointment provides natural relief from muscle and joint pain and has become especially popular among athletes and women seeking alternatives to synthetic anti-inflammatory medicines.
Through this work, Professor Motaung demonstrated the scientific value of African indigenous knowledge systems and helped elevate traditional plant-based remedies into mainstream health innovation.
Tackling Graduate Unemployment Through Innovation
One of the defining features of Professor Motaung’s life was her fierce commitment to combating graduate unemployment. Minister Nzimande highlighted how she took the extraordinary step of making her PhD students shareholders in her biotechnology company, giving them:
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Hands-on industry experience
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Entrepreneurial exposure
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A direct stake in the success of their innovations
“She did not just identify the problem or lament about it,” Nzimande said. “She found creative solutions. Prof. Motaung was not a professional lamenter—she acted.”
Her approach became a model for linking postgraduate research to job creation, demonstrating how science can uplift communities and transform lives.
Mentor to Thousands: Advancing Women and Black Scientists
Even amid her many accolades and achievements, Professor Motaung remained deeply committed to mentoring young, black and female researchers, ensuring that the next generation of scientists had access to the support she once lacked.
Her mentorship extended across universities, research councils, innovation hubs and entrepreneurship programmes. Thousands of emerging scholars credit her guidance for shaping their careers.
Minister Nzimande emphasised that her life proves beyond doubt that:
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Black women are capable scientific trailblazers
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Transformative research leadership is possible under difficult conditions
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Representation matters in creating a more inclusive scientific community
A Champion for Research That Solves Real Problems
The Minister urged public research institutions to honour Professor Motaung’s legacy by focusing on research that addresses South Africa’s most pressing challenges, such as:
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Poverty and inequality
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Unemployment
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Gender-based violence
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Energy insecurity
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Climate change
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Non-communicable diseases, including rising cancer rates
“Research must be responsive to the lived realities of ordinary people,” Nzimande said.
Professor Motaung’s work is a prime example of science that directly improves lives, strengthens communities and contributes to national development.
Inspiring a New Generation of Scientists and Dreamers
Minister Nzimande called on the country to use Professor Motaung’s legacy as a catalyst to support young people—especially those from underserved backgrounds—to pursue careers in science, academia and entrepreneurship.
“The best tribute to Prof. Motaung is to empower marginalised young girls and boys to pursue their dreams,” he said.
He added that her life demonstrates that African scientists can break new ground globally while remaining grounded in community needs.
A National Loss, A Lasting Impact
On behalf of government and the nation, Minister Nzimande extended heartfelt condolences:
“On behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, I convey our deepest condolences to the family of Prof. Motaung and express our country’s gratitude for her selfless service to our people.”
Her legacy will continue to shape South African science, innovation and mentorship for generations to come.
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