daniel chigunwe
Rumbidzayi Zinyuke
Senior Health Reporter
Zimbabwe has lost one of its most distinguished medical pioneers, Mr Chad Chandisaita Tarumbwa, who died at United Bulawayo Hospitals on Sunday, following complications from diabetes mellitus.
Mr T, as he was affectionately known, was a trailblazing surgeon whose contributions over four decades left an indelible mark on the country’s healthcare system.
He was among the first Zimbabwean surgeons to break barriers in the medical field, training and mentoring generations of doctors while championing advancements in surgical procedures.
Health and Child Care Secretary Dr Aspect Maunganidze said Mr Tarumbwa opened the doors for many doctors to the field of surgery.
“He left an indelible mark on the medical and surgical landscape and touched the lives of many people in our nation, patients and colleagues alike. He will always be remembered as one who was not shy to defend and push for the cause of his profession. We truly mourn a giant of our era, whose works will always be there for all to see and the nation to benefit,” he said.
Born on September 2, 1951 in Highfield, Harare (then Salisbury), Mr Tarumbwa’s journey was one of brilliance, determination, and service.
He began his education in Highfield, where his academic prowess quickly became evident. His exceptional abilities earned him a place at St Augustine’s Mission (kwaTsambe) for high school, where he continued to excel.
In 1972, he embarked on his medical career, enrolling in the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery programme at the then University of Rhodesia.
After completing his undergraduate medical training in 1976, Mr Tarumbwa undertook his housemanship at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo in 1977.
It was here where his passion for surgery took root.
Determined to further his expertise, he pursued postgraduate training in general surgery with the Royal College of Surgeons (UK) while continuing to serve at Mpilo. His dedication led him to the United Kingdom, where he completed his training and, in 1985, became a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons and Physicians of Glasgow, a testament to his skill and commitment.
Upon his return to Bulawayo, Mr Tarumbwa began offering his expertise as a consultant surgeon, a role he assumed on October 17, 1985.
He was one of the first two black consultants in general surgery at Mpilo Central Hospital, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.
For over 35 years, he selflessly served the people of in the southern part of Zimbabwe, earning a reputation as a brilliant, hard working, and compassionate surgeon.
Beyond his clinical work, Mr Tarumbwa was a dedicated educator. While employed by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, he generously contributed to the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) Medical School, shaping the minds of future doctors.
He also served as an external examiner for the Department of Surgical Sciences at the University of Zimbabwe, ensuring the highest standards of surgical education.
Mr Tarumbwa’s leadership extended far beyond the operating theatre. He was a founding member of the Surgical Society of Zimbabwe in 1994 and served as president of the Zimbabwe Medical Association (ZiMA) from 1993 to 1995, a distinction he shares with only one other surgeon, Mr Bonnie Mauchaza.
His visionary leadership was instrumental in drafting surgical and medical tariffs during his tenure as head of the National Tariffs Liaison Committee of ZiMA. Additionally, he was a Fellow of the College of Surgeons of East, Central, and Southern Africa, further solidifying his standing as a respected figure in the field. In recognition of his long and exceptional service to the nation, the Surgical Society of Zimbabwe awarded Mr Tarumbwa an “Excellence in Leadership Award” on July 19 last year.
“To the Surgical Society of Zimbabwe, Mr Tarumbwa was more than a colleague; he was a larger-than-life figure whose wisdom, humour, and camaraderie enriched every interaction. His presence was a source of inspiration, and his departure leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
“As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary individual, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his life. May his legacy continue to inspire us, and may his soul rest in eternal peace,” said the Surgical Society of Zimbabwe in a statement.
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