As the year concludes, and as has become our custom, we recognize individuals and organizations whose efforts have advanced access to healthcare in Zimbabwe. Despite challenges such as the exodus of skilled healthcare workers due to poor working conditions, the country’s healthcare sector is still in safe and capable hands of the remaining foot soldiers at the front-line of Zimbabwe’s healthcare.
Amid these difficulties, heroes have emerged, tirelessly working to ensure access to quality healthcare services. In 2024, we honor medical professionals, nurses, civil society leaders, and development partners whose contributions have been monumental. Below are the top 15 healthcare leaders of 2024, listed in no particular order.
Medical
Dr. Simukayi Machawira
Dr. Machawira, a cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon, gained respect for leading a team that successfully conducted several open-heart surgeries at a medical camp held at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals. In November, ten open-heart surgeries were performed, all with remarkable success thanks to his leadership.
Dr. Kudzayi Munanzvi
Dr. Munanzvi led a team in early 2024 that separated an asymmetrical conjoined twin from a two-year-old boy in a delicate four-hour procedure. The twin had complex connections, including shared organs and bones, requiring meticulous planning and execution.
Dr. Kudzai Kanyepi
As the only female cardiothoracic surgeon in Zimbabwe, Dr. Kanyepi provides vital services at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals. She finds patient counseling rewarding, as it fosters acceptance of surgery, leading to improved health outcomes. Following her medical degree from the University of Zimbabwe, Kanyepi pursued six years of cardiothoracic surgery training in Durban, supported by the Zimbabwe Manpower Development Fund. She is part of the team doing open heart surgeries at the Hospital.
Dr. Gladman Mubonani
Dr. Mubonani, the district medical officer for Uzumba Maramba Pfungwe, has implemented electronic health records across clinics and hospitals in his district. This system has enhanced health outcomes for patients and reduced staff workloads. He is also a Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist and Health Economist.
Dr. Anna Nyakabau
Dr. Nyakabau, Zimbabwe’s leading oncologist and founder of Cancer Serve rust, led a team in October 2024 to provide free oncology services at Karanda Mission Hospital. They attended to 255 clients, addressing late cancer diagnosis, a significant challenge in Zimbabwe, through oncology outreach programs.
Research
Dr. Harunavamwe Notburga Chifamba
Dr. Chifamba is a specialist anaesthetist (26years) at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital and currently the Acting Director of Clinical services at the same institution. She also has been a co-lead in the development of the National Surgical Obstetric and Anaesthesia strategy formulation and initial implementation in the past 2-3years.
Prof. Collen Masimirembwa
Prof. Masimirembwa, a biochemist and President of the African Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, has led groundbreaking research on pharmacogenetics. His study demonstrated the effectiveness of PGx testing in reducing adverse drug reactions and improving treatment efficacy among African populations.
Prof. Nicholas Midzi
As the Director of the National Institute for Health Research, Prof. Midzi has spearheaded efforts to combat neglected tropical diseases such as bilharzia and elephantiasis. Collaborating with partners like WHO and the HigherLife Foundation, he led mass drug administration programs and a schistosomiasis pilot study in Shamva District.
Social Services
Mr. Mike Frudd
Chairperson of the Dorothy Duncan Centre, Mr. Frudd has empowered visually impaired Zimbabweans through skills training and the Dorothy Duncan Braille Library. The center helps individuals regain independence after losing their sight in adulthood.
Mrs. Loveness Mainato
Executive Director of the Albino Charity Organization of Zimbabwe, Mrs. Mainato has advocated for tax removal on sunscreen materials for people with albinism. She has also engaged corporate stakeholders to source sunscreen and other necessities for this community.
Mental Health
Prof. Dixon Chibanda
Founder of the Friendship Bench, Prof. Chibanda’s innovative model trains grandmothers to provide mental health services. This initiative has been replicated in countries like Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya, and Botswana.
Dr. Murudo Kamhara-Mutape
Dr. Kamhara-Mutape, a passionate psychiatrist and Principal Medical Practitioner at Medinsight Family Clinic, was recognized at the PROWEB Women Achievers 2024 awards. Her mental health advocacy focuses on tackling issues like drug and substance abuse through community campaigns.
Wilson Box
As CEO of the Zimbabwe Civil Liberties and Drug Network, Mr. Box advocates for harm reduction strategies for drug users. His work has significantly impacted the implementation of health interventions for this marginalized group.
HIV and SRHR
Tatenda Songore
Executive Director of Youth Advocates Zimbabwe, Mr. Songore launched the Youth Helpline 393 in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. This service bridges gaps in healthcare access for young people, addressing stigma and discrimination in health facilities.
Gumisai Bonzo
Founder of Transsmart, Gumisai advocates for the rights of transgender individuals in Zimbabwe. Her organization provides access to healthcare services such as HIV testing, counseling, and mental health support for the transgender community.
NB// This list is not exhaustive and was compiled by HealthTimes Editorial and a team of independent health analysts. This list is in no particular order.
