Dr. Takwanisa Machemedze

Takwanisa Machemedze is a South African researcher whose work spans public health, epidemiology, and population studies. Affiliated with leading South African academic and research institutions, the scholar has contributed to interdisciplinary projects addressing HIV, adolescent health, and demographic methods. The research integrates quantitative modelling with community-based inquiry to inform policy and health systems in Southern Africa.

A central focus lies in the long-term health outcomes of perinatally HIV-infected adolescents, including lung function, radiologic features of chronic lung disease, bone health, and renal risk. These studies highlight the enduring clinical challenges faced by youth on antiretroviral therapy and emphasize prevention of early-life infections. Additional work examines HIV-related stigma, risk perception, and sexual behaviour, advancing understanding of psychosocial drivers of health outcomes.

Recent research extends to vaccine hesitancy and influenza uptake in South Africa, applying behavioural frameworks to improve immunisation strategies. Contributions also include analyses of climate-related shocks and welfare, as well as demographic estimation and survey methodology. Collectively, this body of work demonstrates strengths in longitudinal analysis, mixed-methods design, and evidence generation for public health and social policy.