South African-born US billionaire, Dr Patrick Soon-Shiong who is the founder of the multinational conglomerate NantWorks, has set up a vaccine manufacturing campus in Cape Town. He says the aim is to produce vaccines for all major diseases affecting Africans.
Speaking at the launch of NantSA in Brackenfell, Dr Soon-Shiong, said many of the diseases, including HIV, cervical cancer and Burkitt’s Lymphoma that are prevalent on the continent, are currently being ignored.
President Cyril Ramaphosa attended the launch. Dr Soon-Shiong says they are investing over three billion rand to establish the Cape Town facility and another billion rand in philanthropic donations.
“We are starting with a very small start so that we understand the organisation of this R100 million for the scholarships. It is our intention as a family SA as well as my corporations to truly make the investment in my home, South Africa is our home. This is an opportunity to truly together with the current leadership to make an impact not only in the country but the continent,” says Dr Soon-Shiong.
VIDEO: Health in Africa – NantSA vaccine manufacturing campus launch discussion:
