Chief Research Specialist, HSRC

Dr Vuyo Mjimba is a development policy researcher and strategist with over 15 years of experience in applied research, evidence-based policy evaluation, and multidisciplinary programme leadership. He is Chief Research Specialist at the Africa Institute of South Africa (AISA), a division of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), where he conducts research on sustainable development, industrial policy, public health systems, and innovation in Africa. His research integrates economic development, climate policy, regional integration, and innovation systems, with a strong focus on translating evidence into policy impact. Recent work has focused on managing non-communicable diseases in Africa, industrial linkages in mining, and institutional frameworks for green transitions. Dr Mjimba has held a number of executive roles, supervising teams, securing grants, and mentoring PhD and Master’s students. He regularly presents at academic and policy forums and serves on editorial and ethics committees. He has published over 40 outputs, including peer-reviewed articles and policy briefs, and edited books. He holds a PhD in Development Policy and Practice from The Open University (UK), and brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective drawn from earlier qualifications in biotechnology and biochemistry.