IN CONVERSATION WITH Dr Phiyani Lebea ON SCIENCE WISE

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