The Aurum Institute, a leading Africa-based global health organisation, today announced the appointment of Professor Geoffrey Setswe as Chief Executive Officer of Aurum Institute South Africa, effective 1 July 2026.
Aurum Institute South Africa is the largest country entity within The Aurum Institute Group and plays a central role in the organisation’s research, health systems strengthening and programme implementation work. The Aurum Institute Group operates in South Africa, Mozambique and Ghana, with a presence in the United States, and works with governments, funders, communities, and partners to improve health outcomes across Africa and globally.
Professor Setswe succeeds Professor Vinodh Edward, who has led Aurum Institute South Africa since 2021 and has also been serving as Group Chief Operating Officer of The Aurum Institute since January 2025. Prof Edward will be concentrating on his Group role through which he supports the growing scale and complexity of Aurum’s operations across multiple countries.
As CEO of Aurum Institute South Africa, Professor Setswe will lead the organisation’s South African operations and oversee a diverse portfolio of research, implementation and health systems strengthening programmes focused on tuberculosis, HIV, non-communicable diseases, and emerging public health priorities. He will also play a critical role in strengthening partnerships with government, donors, academic institutions, and communities.
Professor Setswe is a distinguished public health leader with more than three decades of experience spanning public health research, policy development and institutional leadership. Throughout his career, he has held senior leadership positions across academia and research institutions, building a reputation for advancing evidence-based approaches to some of South Africa’s most pressing health challenges.
“Professor Setswe’s appointment reflects both the depth of leadership within Aurum and our commitment to developing and promoting exceptional talent from within the organisation,” said Professor Dave Clark, Group CEO of The Aurum Institute. “Over many years, Geoff has made a significant contribution to Aurum’s scientific excellence, strategic direction, and organisational culture. He is widely respected not only for his expertise in public health and research, but also for the time and energy he invests in mentoring young researchers and emerging leaders. As Aurum Institute South Africa enters its next chapter, I am confident that his leadership will strengthen our impact and continue to inspire the next generation of public health professionals.”
“I am honoured to lead Aurum Institute South Africa at such an important time in global health,” said Professor Setswe. “Aurum has built a remarkable reputation for generating evidence that influences policy and translating that policy into practice. I look forward to working with our talented teams, partners, and stakeholders towards our mission of improving health outcomes and strengthening health systems for the communities we serve.”
Professor Edward noted that the transition comes at a time when Aurum Institute South Africa is well positioned for its next phase of growth, impact, and partnership.
“Having worked closely with Geoff, I have seen firsthand his unwavering commitment to Aurum’s mission and values. I am confident that he will build on the strong foundation established in South Africa and continue driving excellence, innovation and impact across our programmes and partnerships,” said Professor Edward.