As acting head of programme for governance insights and analytics at Good Governance Africa, Mmabatho Mongae, 31, leads a multidisciplinary team committed to evidence-based policy research that strengthens governance systems on the continent. Her work includes directing the Governance Performance Index, a tool that assesses the effectiveness of local governments, and overseeing the African Cities Project, which builds a data-driven understanding of urban governance across sub-Saharan Africa. Mmabatho’s research investigates the gap between formal institutions and everyday lived experiences. Her inquiry into South Africa’s political psyche and citizen-state relations reflects her belief that real transformation begins by understanding people’s relationship with power. “I focus on the dissonance between what was, what is, and what might be,” she explains. This ethos also inspired her podcast, In Conversation With… Candid PhD Journeys and Beyond, amplifying the voices of African scholars and practitioners. A PhD graduate, Mmabatho was awarded the Walter and Albertina Sisulu Prize during her master’s studies, a moment that cemented her sense of responsibility to collective advancement.
A significant milestone includes being awarded the warded the Walter and Albertina Sisulu Prize during the master’s degree and the completion of the PhD. The former imparted a sense of responsibility, serving as a reminder that although endeavours may begin through individual effort, they should ultimately contribute to the collective good and advancement. The recognition was not only an honour, but a call to contribute meaningfully. The latter serves as a new reference point – a proof that anything is possible with dedication and purpose.