Unpacking a Legacy: New History Book Traces the Journey of the SAMRC from Inception to COVID-19

The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) has launched a book illustrating its 55-year history of medico-scientific innovation, achievements and breakthroughs.

Authored by Howard Phillips, an emeritus professor of history at the University of Cape Town, the book – titled A Widening Idea of Health and Health Research: The SAMRC from Creation to COVID - tracks the SAMRC’s accelerating change, its ups and downs and steps and mis-steps during the eras of apartheid, transition to democracy, post-apartheid, and the pandemics of HIV/AIDS, Covid-19 and TB.

“This book is special because it is the first comprehensive history of the SAMRC covering its entire span from creation to Covid-19. It will give those involved in health research and medicine a better understanding of what the SAMRC has achieved and the wider context in which it did this. Also, where its efforts have been misguided and unsuccessful and what can the organisation learn from them as it faces new challenges in the second quarter of the 21st century,” says Phillips.

The story culminates in one of the most challenging health crises—the Covid-19 pandemic. As misinformation threatened public trust, the SAMRC became a beacon of truth, providing scientifically grounded insights that helped steer South Africa through turbulent times. The final chapter in the book serves as both a testament to resilience and a call to safeguard the integrity of health research and science in the future.

“This book is more than just a historical account—it is an inspiring tribute to the scientists, leaders, and visionaries who have shaped the SAMRC’s enduring legacy. It is an essential read for researchers, and anyone interested in medical and health sciences in South Africa,” said the SAMRC President and CEO Professor Ntobeko Ntusi.

The book is available in digital format at www.samrc.ac.za and in hard copies which can be requested from the SAMRC.