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IN CONVERSATION WITH Dr Phiyani Lebea ON SCIENCE WISE

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Dr Phiyani Lebea, a South African biotechnology
researcher, entrepreneur, and animal health specialist
whose work focuses on developing innovative solutions to
some of Africa's most pressing livestock disease
challenges. He is the Chief Scientific Officer of TokaBio, a
biotechnology company dedicated to advancing
diagnostics, vaccine development, and disease surveillance
technologies for animal health. Dr Lebea's research has
focused extensively on Foot-and-Mouth Disease, one of the
most economically significant livestock diseases affecting
Africa. His work spans diagnostics, epidemiology, vaccine
development, and cross-border disease control, with a
particular emphasis on creating practical solutions that can
be used in rural and agricultural communities. Through
TokaBio, he has led the development of a 4IR-enabled
point-of-care diagnostic device designed for the rapid
detection of Foot-and-Mouth Disease, helping farmers and
veterinary authorities respond to outbreaks more quickly
and effectively. Dr Lebea is committed to building African-
led scientific innovations that strengthen food security,
livestock productivity, and economic resilience across the
continent
16 Jun English South Africa Technology · Music

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