About Us

We have a diverse team of professionals, including PHDs, Professors and Medical Doctors

Dr Aman Maharaj

Director & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Aman is an engineer, economist and a businessman based in Durban, South Africa. He holds a combined B.Sc. Civil Engineering, MBA and PhD (Development Studies) from various tertiary institutions. Aman has amassed 30 years of work experience in diverse sectors, including all tiers of government, banking, manufacturing, FMCG, management consulting, and private equity financing.

SHIVANI RAMPERSAD

CHIEF Operations Officer

Shivani is an experienced and passionate scientist with a diverse background in health, food, and education; proficient in research, product development, operationalisation, and translating scientific advancements into market-driven solutions. She has a proven track record in ensuring regulatory compliance, maintaining quality assurance, and delivering innovative products for business improvement. She has strong leadership skills and business acumen cultivated through an entrepreneurial family background.

Dr Pramod Reddy

Director

Dr Pramod Reddy, an esteemed General and Laparoscopic Surgeon who serves as Medical Director at The Durban Breast Clinic and The Surgical Screening Clinic. Dr. Reddy’s reputation as a leading surgeon is well established, and his exceptional care for patients has contributed to a thriving practice in Umhlanga, KZN. Alongside his clinical achievements, Dr. Reddy is pursuing a Ph.D. in Breast Cancer, a testament to his ongoing dedication to remaining at the forefront of his field. With his wealth of expertise, clinical excellence, and passion for exceptional patient care, Dr. Reddy is an asset to Cannalytics Africa.

PROF. MARIAM SEEDAT-KHAN

Director

Prof Mariam Seedat is an accomplished and renowned Clinical Sociologist. With an outstanding educational background and extensive experience in social services, Prof. Seedat earned her D.Phil in Sociology from the University of Natal, which solidifies her expertise in the field. Her exceptional knowledge in the complexity of social behaviour and sociological aspects of research is vital in ensuring that our services uphold the highest standards of excellence and inclusivity.

Prof Kugen Permaul

QUALITY CONTROL MANAGER

Prof Kugen Permaul is a distinguished professional with a wealth of experience in Microbiology. Prof. Permaul holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Natal, and his exceptional contributions to the field have been recognised with numerous prestigious awards. His research and publications in leading scientific journals are a testament to his expertise and excellence in the field of Biotechnology and Microbiology. Prof. Permaul was awarded full professorship in 2011 and served as the Head of the Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology at DUT from 2014-2017. He recently led the BRICS Bioethanol Project that involved researchers from universities in all five BRICS nations. His continued involvement in a new BRICS Biohydrogen Project highlights his commitment to the field. Cannalytics Africa is fortunate to have such an exceptional expert in Biotechnology and Microbiology on its team.

DR Shikanth BUGWANDEEN

CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER

Dr. Shikanth Bugwandeen is a highly skilled medical professional specialising in anaesthetics. He obtained his FCA from the College of Medicine in South Africa and holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Durban Westville. Known for his innovative spirit, he is a trailblazer in the realm of Medical Cannabis, advocating for the creation of regulated, safe, effective, and affordable medications. Beyond his medical achievements, Dr. Bugwandeen is a compassionate philanthropist committed to uplifting the socio-economic well-being of underprivileged communities.

Maxine Govender

LABORATORY ANALYST

Maxine holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Biotechnology and has a wealth of experience in various fields, including health and safety, quality assurance, product development, and research. She possesses a deep commitment to ensuring the safety of consumer products in the market. Additionally, Maxine is driven by a strong passion for creating innovative products that enhance consumer value.

Ian Naicker

RESPONSIBLE PHARMACIST

Ian Naicker is an accomplished pharmacist with extensive experience in various fields of pharmacy practice. With over 20 years of professional experience, he has established himself as a skilled practitioner, clinical trialist, and researcher. Ian has actively engaged in national and international collaborations, showcasing his expertise and findings at international conferences. His work has also been recognized and published in peer-reviewed journals, highlighting his contributions to the scientific community.

Ian’s academic achievements include a Masters in Public Health from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, NRM School of Medicine. He is currently in the process of completing his PhD in pharmaceutical policy, demonstrating his commitment to advancing the field of pharmacy and contributing to evidence-based decision-making in healthcare.

Vision

Our vision entails unlocking the rich agricultural, biodiverse and multicultural resources that underpin our heritage as South Africans; to grow a globally-relevant industry and establish South Africa as a global leader. The ecosystem should be fully inclusive and even the playingground for all stakeholders including traditional healers, local farmers and state-of-the-art growers.