About Us

The South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA) is an academic and research entity at Stellenbosch University (SU). SACEMA is housed within the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), under the School for Data Science and Computational Thinking.

SACEMA focuses on advancing the use of mathematical and statistical modelling to understand the dynamics of infectious diseases and support public health decision-making. The Centre’s work spans a range of health challenges, including HIV, tuberculosis (TB), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), vaccine-preventable diseases, emerging infections, cancer, and non-communicable diseases. Click here to find out more about our research programme.

SACEMA collaborates locally and internationally with governments, public health organisations, academic institutions, and communities, contributing to evidence-based policy and improved health outcomes.

Vision

To improve population health in Africa through effective use of modelling. 

Mission

To provide the scientific understanding required to reduce the rate and impact of human diseases in a manner that will improve the quality of life of all South Africans and others living on the African continent.

This mission will be achieved through three main objectives:

  1. Developing the necessary human capacity and infrastructure to advance epidemiological modelling and analysis.
  2. Aligning research with national and international priorities by placing emphasis on modelling epidemiology, control, and management of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS), tuberculosis (TB), STIs, viral hepatitis, as well as emerging infections and outbreak-prone vaccine-preventable diseases.
  3. Providing a firm scientific basis for health policy and planning.

Background

SACEMA was established in 2006 as a national Centre of Excellence, funded by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), managed by the National Research Foundation (NRF), and hosted by Stellenbosch University. The Centre has played a key role in developing modelling capacity in South Africa and the region.

In 2024, SACEMA was formally integrated into Stellenbosch University and is now housed within the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) within the School for Data Science and Computational Thinking. This integration strengthens SACEMA’s alignment with broader institutional and national priorities while continuing to advance epidemiological modelling in Africa.