'Sinikithemba: The Labour of Hope and Science at McCord Hospital in the Era of HIV' with Catherine Burns,

On this episode of The Podcast, we welcome Professor Catherine Burns, a medical and African historian, historian of health, and Professor of History at the University of Johannesburg. 

Our conversation centres on Sinikithemba: The Labour of Hope and Science at McCord Hospital in the Era of HIV, a book co-authored by Catherine Burns, Janet Giddy and Jennifer Upton, released in September 2026. 

The book chronicles the history of McCord Hospital, tracing its journey from its early twentieth-century origins as a mission hospital to its emergence as an internationally recognised centre for HIV care, treatment and research. It documents a significant chapter in South Africa's medical and social history, bringing attention to the relationship between healthcare, scientific discovery, human compassion and the determination to care for people during a time of profound uncertainty. 

Through the history of McCord Hospital, this book opens a window into the South African experience of the HIV era, a period that profoundly shaped healthcare, public health policy, scientific research and social life. 

Enjoy this episode as we explore the story behind Sinikithemba with Professor Catherine Burns.

The Podcast:
Camera: Mluleki Dlamini & Siyabonga Meyiwa
Sound: Sibusiso 'Dust' Nkosi
Editing: Mluleki Dlamini 
Co-ordinator: Phumelele Khambule
Host: Nongcebo Vukile McKenzie

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