JSE listed healthcare group, Labat Africa which announced in September 2019 that it was entering the CANNABIS market has announced the acquisition of a 70% interest in leading science, technology and research group – Biodata to expand and further develop its integrated cannabis business in South Africa.

The company is focused on the cannabis industry and was initially set up as a holistic healing enterprise incorporating Cannabinoid healing. The company is currently well positioned to commence with formalised clinical trials focused on pain management and insomnia.

BioData is based in East London and is headed by Dr Shiksha Gallow. Dr Gallow is registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (“HPCSA”) in Clinical Pathology as a Medical Scientist and holds various degrees in public health medicines as well as in business. The company is supported by a team of researchers, doctors and scientists both locally and abroad who will be working with local academic institutions to further Dr Gallow’s Clinical Investigations.

“We are pleased to welcome on-board a group of leading experts in the cannabis industry who are committed to ensuring South Africa takes its rightful place on the world stage in the field of cannabis innovation and scientific excellence” says Brian Van Rooyen, CEO of Labat Africa.

Dr Gallow has vast experience and will assist with ensuring that the Labat Africa facilities retain its accreditation, certification and complies with the regulatory requirements, quality standards as well as legislation. Dr Gallow’s knowledge and involvement extends into the areas of ISO17025 and 15189 standards, British Qualogy Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (“GCLP”), FHI DAIDS (“Division of AIDS”), Occupational Health and Safety as well as FDA (“Food and Drug Administration”) inspections.