about
us
Founded in 2013, Rare Diseases South Africa (RDSA) is a non-profit organisation advocating to ensure that people living with rare diseases and congenital disorders experience greater recognition, support, improved health service and better overall quality of life.
Started out of personal need following the diagnosis of organisation founder, Kelly du Plessis' son, it became evident that there was a lack of awareness and support for rare diseases in general in South Africa.
In 2020, RDSA made the decision to absorb Genetic Alliance South Africa into its operations and expand our mandate to include congenital disorders.
The organisation is managed on a day-to-day basis by a CEO, who is assisted by selected external consultants. The Board of Directors also include individuals representing different sectors of the economy and people impacted by rare diseases.