admin
speakers commending his contribution in promoting indigenous knowledge systems.
Professor Chavhunduka (82) who was also the vice chancellor of the University of Zimbabwe between 1992 and 1996 and was part of the MDC-T guardian council, died of throat cancer.
He will be buried in Rusape today.
Addressing mourners at the service, Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai said Prof Chavhunduka had left a lasting impression on Zimbabwe’s history.
“When the social, cultural, intellectual and political history of Zimbabwe is written, Professor Gordon Chavhunduka’s name will certainly feature among the titles of great sons and daughters who made an indelible mark on the nation’s pathway,” he said.
“He worked tirelessly to bridge the gap between modern medicine and traditional herbal medicine. His work helped to demonstrate the critical significance of knowledge that has been developed over generations in African communities. Today, researchers across the world recognise and place high value on traditional knowledge systems and medicinal herbs and plants, which have become key sources of research in the development of pharmaceutical drugs,” PM Tsvangirai said.
PM Tsvangirai said Prof Chavhunduka had left important lessons to today’s youths on the importance of preserving one’s culture.
“His life is an excellent example to our young people that one can be a high achiever and still remain faithful to your cultural roots and the ordinary people around you.
“A leading social activist, Professor Chavhunduka sought to ensure the institutionalisation of traditional herbal medicine by providing leadership to the practitioners through a well-organised and respected national institution. His leadership gave status and direction to the traditionally marginalised herbal practitioners,” PM Tsvangirai said.
Several speakers drawn from the UZ, Zinatha and trade unions praised Prof Chavhunduka for the work he did in promoting Zimbabwe’s heritage.
He was born on August 31 1931 at St Augustine Mission in Penhalonga and did his primary education at St Faith’s Mission in Makoni and Inanda Primary School in Durban, South Africa.
He then proceeded to St Augustine’s Mission and Goromonzi High School for his secondary education. Prof Chavhunduka did his university education at the Universities of California and Manchester.
Online Reporter