Professor Gita Ramjee, a world-renowned scientist and champion for HIV prevention, passed away on March 31, 2020, at the age of 64. Her death, from complications related to COVID-19, was a significant loss to the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

Professor Ramjee was a Ugandan-South African researcher who dedicated her career to developing HIV prevention solutions for women. She was a Chief Scientific Officer at the Aurum Institute and previously held leadership positions at the South African Medical Research Council and the University of Washington.

Her groundbreaking research on microbicides, medications used to prevent HIV transmission, was instrumental in advancing the field. Professor Ramjee was a passionate advocate for women's health and tirelessly pursued solutions that empowered women to protect themselves from HIV.

Professor Ramjee's achievements were widely recognized. She received numerous awards, including the EDCTP/European Union Outstanding African Female Scientist Award in 2018 and the SAMRC Gold Medal Scientific Achievement Award in 2017.

Beyond her scientific contributions, Professor Ramjee was remembered as a dedicated mentor, friend, and family person. Her colleagues described her as a passionate and inspiring leader who left an indelible mark on HIV research.

Professor Ramjee's death is a reminder of the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS and the critical role of scientists like her in developing life-saving solutions. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of researchers working to end the HIV epidemic.