We are proud to be the selected Clinical Research Organization (CRO) for the Biovac Cholera Vaccine Clinical Trial (OCV-S), a landmark initiative for South African science and global health.
The Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV-S) holds particular significance as the first vaccine developed entirely in the South African continent. It’s clinical trial is the result of a strong partnership between Biovac, the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) with support from the Gates Foundation, Wellcome Trust, Open Philanthropy, and the ELMA Foundation.
Celebrating a historic launch
On the 11th November 2025, Catherine Lund and Karin Titterton from the P95 team, had the privilege of attending the official OCV-S trial launch at the Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU) at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto. The event brought together leaders from government, academia, and global health.
Among the distinguished guests were Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, South African Minister of Health, and Dr Nomalungelo Gina, South African Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI).
Dr Morena Makhoana, CEO of Biovac said, that the OCV-S represents lifesaving vaccines made by Africa for Africa.
Dr Aaron Matasaeledi, South African Minister of Health, further praised the OCV-S as the first vaccine to be developed start to finish on South African soil. He continued to say that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the inequity of vaccines and highlighted that the access to vaccines should not be a luxury but a necessity.
Prof Glenda Gray, Chief Scientific Officer at the SAMRC further mentioned that this was a historical landmark for our country and a vital step in strengthening our ability to respond to infectious diseases.
P95’s Contribution
P95 is proud to serve as the selected CRO for this cholera vaccine trial partnering with the IVI, Biovac, and SAMRC to ensure success.
The project represents a major leap toward Africa’s scientific independence and vaccine self-reliance, demonstrating the power of collaboration between local and global health leaders.
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