Vusumuzi Dube
Sharon Chigeza
Dr Tendai Charity Nhenga, Dean of the School of Law at Africa University (AU), has received notable accolades for her exceptional research and contributions to public health.
Recently honoured with the prestigious Presidential Community Innovation Award at the 13th Zimbabwe International Research Symposium, Dr Nhenga’s impactful work has played a crucial role in tackling pressing societal challenges that have emerged in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr Nhenga led a national study that investigates the behavioural uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine alongside routine immunization, non-communicable diseases, and maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health and nutrition services in Zimbabwe. This multidisciplinary research involved collaboration among esteemed institutions, including Africa University, Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE), Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences, and the Women’s University in Africa. The research team was comprised of senior academics, Doctoral candidates and Masters students.
The 15 member team comprised namely, Lead Public Health expert – Dr Sibongile Chituku (AU); Lead Policy Expert – Dr Tawanda Nyikadzino (AU); Lead Qualitative Researcher – Dr Pedzisayi Mangezvo (AU); Senior Qualitative Researcher – Dr Richard Makoni (AU); (Associate Qualitative and Quantitative Researcher & Fieldwork Coordinator) Frank Bhunu (BUSE); Associate Quantitative Lead researcher – Absai Chakaipa (MSUAS); Disability Lead Expert – Rumbidzai Marevegwa (AU); Snr Qualitative Researcher – Simbarashe Kanyimo (AU); Associate Snr Qualitative Researcher – Rumbidzai Nondo (WUA); Social Science Researcher – Tinashe Sengurai (AU); Public Health Research Assistant – Emmanuel Odera (AU); Child Rights Research Assistant – Clara Kamwara (AU), and logistics coordinator and quantitative research assistant – Susan Mangwana (AU).
The research aimed to identify barriers to health service access and utilisation, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. Key findings highlighted issues such as inadequate healthcare financing, a shortage of specialized health professionals, religious objections to vaccination, and an over-reliance on out-of-pocket payments for healthcare services. These challenges have led many individuals to seek alternative treatments from traditional healers or unregistered service providers, further exacerbating health inequities.
In an interview with Pungwe News, Dr. Nhenga said she was grateful for the award, noting that she was surprised to learn of the national impact of her research.
“I had no idea that our study would resonate so deeply within the community and potentially inform national healthcare policies. This recognition is truly an honour,” she stated.
The findings from this critical research are to contribute significantly to further sharpening Zimbabwe’s National Health Strategy, aiming to enhance the demand for health services and improve the quality of care provided.
Dr. Nhenga credited UNICEF for their funding support, which was instrumental in the project’s success.
“The collaboration with UNICEF allowed us to conduct a comprehensive study that could inform policy and practice,” she added.
Dr. Nhenga’s passion for research is deeply rooted in her family background, having been born into a family of academics. Her father, a well-established academic, played a pivotal role in shaping her academic journey, assisting her with her first undergraduate research proposal.
“Research runs in my family, and my father is my role model. His encouragement and support laid the foundation for my academic pursuits,” she reflected. “Moreover, my recent interest in research on access to essential health care services for marginalised groups is also inspired by my mother who served as a public health nurse for almost 40 years.”
Initially, Dr. Nhenga embarked on a career in journalism, drawn by the adrenaline of researching, reporting and storytelling. However, her experiences in the field soon shifted her focus toward law, particularly human rights advocacy.
“As a journalist, I witnessed many injustices that compelled me to pursue a career in law, where I could advocate for those whose voices were silenced,” she explained.
Dr. Nhenga pursued her academic qualifications with determination. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Law and Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the National University of Lesotho in 1999 and 2001, respectively. Following her graduation, she worked at Mukonoweshuro and Partners law firm before joining the Attorney General’s office in the drafting department, where her research career truly began.
In 2003, she furthered her studies by obtaining a Master of Laws (LLM) in Human Rights from the University of Cape Town. Shortly after, she pursued a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Law, graduating in 2009. That same year, she joined the Children’s Institute at the University of Cape Town as a senior researcher, focusing on child-rights related issues from 2009 to 2013.
In 2013, Dr. Nhenga returned to Zimbabwe to head the Child Sensitive Social Policies unit at the Women’s University in Africa. During this time, she led a national research projects for UNICEF, which focused on the rights and welfare of children. The success of this initiative highlighted the need for similar research centres across tertiary institutions in Zimbabwe.
In 2017, Dr. Nhenga seized the opportunity to replicate her successful research model at Africa University, where she pioneered the Child Rights Research Centre. This centre emphasises teaching, training, research, and publications, contributing significantly to the field. Her efforts to establish the centre have been instrumental in raising awareness and promoting the rights of children in Zimbabwe.
The culmination of her remarkable career came in 2022 when Dr. Nhenga was appointed the founding Dean of the School of Law at Africa University. In this role, she has continued to advocate for social justice and human rights, mentoring the next generation of legal professionals.
Dr. Nhenga’s academic qualifications reflect her commitment to excellence in research and education as her credentials include: Research Fellowship –London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 2023; Postdoctoral Research Fellowship – University of Cape Town, South Africa, 2013;Doctor of Philosophy in Public Law – University of Cape Town, South Africa, 2009; Master of Laws in Human Rights – University of Cape Town, South Africa; Bachelor of Laws Hon Degree – University of Lesotho, Lesotho, 2001; Bachelor of Arts in Law Degree – University of Lesotho, Lesotho, 1999 and a National Diploma in Mass Communication – 1994
These qualifications underscore her expertise and dedication to advancing legal education and research.
As Dr. Nhenga reflects on her journey, she emphasises the importance of continuous research and innovation in addressing societal challenges.
“Research is not just about gathering data; it’s about understanding the human experience and using that knowledge to inform policy and improve lives,” she stated.
Her vision for the future includes expanding the scope of her research initiatives to further address health disparities and promote equitable access to healthcare services in Zimbabwe. Dr. Nhenga believes that through collaborative efforts and sustained advocacy, significant strides can be made in improving public health and human rights.
Dr. Nhenga’s receipt of the Presidential Community Innovation Award serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to research, education, and social justice. Her ground-breaking work in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has not only enhanced healthcare access in Zimbabwe but has also inspired a new generation of researchers and advocates, evidenced by the presence of doctoral and masters students on her research team.
As the Dean of the School of Law at Africa University, Dr. Nhenga continues to lead with vision and purpose, advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations and ensuring that the voices of those often overlooked are heard.
Online Reporter