Prof. Dr. Mike Sathekge: Transforming Nuclear Medicine and Theranostics in Africa
A Pioneer of Theranostics on the African Continent
Prof. Dr. Mike Sathekge has become one of the most influential figures in nuclear medicine and theranostics, redefining cancer care in Africa and beyond. As Head of Nuclear Medicine at the University of Pretoria and Steve Biko Academic Hospital, and President & CEO of NuMeRI (Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure), he has spearheaded the introduction of advanced radioligand therapies and state-of-the-art molecular imaging technologies to the continent.
His vision is rooted in patient-centered innovation: providing access to cutting-edge treatments such as peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), peptide radioligand therapy (PRLT), and Actinium‑225 PSMA (225Ac-PSMA) therapy for prostate cancer. These breakthroughs have given hope to patients for whom conventional therapies had failed.
Groundbreaking Research and Global Leadership
Prof. Sathekge has led numerous first-in-human clinical trials in Africa, introducing groundbreaking therapies including peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), peptide radioligand therapy (PRLT), and Actinium‑225 PSMA (225Ac‑PSMA) therapy for prostate cancer. He also championed the use of Lutetium‑177 therapy and was instrumental in bringing Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIRT) for liver cancer to South Africa.
His research output is among the most impactful in African medical science, with over 300 peer‑reviewed publications and more than 8,500 citations. His clinical studies not only improved survival outcomes but also demonstrated how theranostics and molecular imaging can deliver highly targeted treatment with fewer side effects compared to traditional cancer therapies.
Internationally, Prof. Sathekge plays a central role in shaping the future of theranostics. He leads the IAEA Anchor Center for Rays of Hope for Cancer Care in South Africa, working to expand access to nuclear medicine in low‑ and middle‑income countries. He is also a member of The Lancet Oncology International Advisory Board and contributes to the field through his editorial leadership as Editor-in-Chief of Seminars in Nuclear Medicine and Associate Editor of both the European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging and the Journal of Nuclear Medicine.
Recognition and a Vision for the Future
Prof. Sathekge’s leadership and pioneering spirit have earned him wide recognition. The National Research Foundation of South Africa has honored him as an Internationally Acclaimed Researcher, and in 2025, North-West University awarded him an Honorary Doctorate in Pharmaceutical Sciences for his groundbreaking contributions to radiopharmaceutical development and nuclear medicine.
His work at NuMeRI is building infrastructure that will ensure South Africa remains at the forefront of theranostics — with facilities that include a cyclotron, a GMP radiopharmacy, and advanced preclinical and clinical imaging. Looking ahead, Prof. Sathekge is committed to expanding access to theranostic treatments, training the next generation of nuclear medicine specialists, and strengthening Africa’s role in global precision oncology.
By combining visionary leadership, world-class research, and patient-centered care, Prof. Sathekge continues to transform the landscape of theranostics and nuclear medicine, offering hope to cancer patients worldwide.