Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Sunday News Reporter
THE medical community has mourned the passing away of Mr Chad Chandisaita Tarumbwa, describing his life as a testament to his unwavering dedication to medicine, education, and the welfare of his profession, leaving an indelible mark on Zimbabwe’s healthcare system.
Mr Tarumbwa died on 9 February at the age of 73.
In an obituary, the Zimbabwe Medical Association (ZiMA) said Mr Tarumbwa’s contributions extended far beyond the operating theatre describing him as a dedicated teacher and mentor who shaped the careers of countless medical professionals.
“Mr Tarumbwa was well known for his dedication to teaching and mentoring junior colleagues. Countless numbers of current and retired specialists passed through his hands. His dedication to patient care was unparalleled. In addition to all the above, Mr Tarumbwa was passionate about the welfare of the profession,” ZiMA said.
A passionate advocate for the medical profession, Mr Tarumbwa played a pivotal role in the formation of the ZiMA in 1980 and the Zimbabwe Surgical Society (ZSS).
He served as president of the Matabeleland Branch of ZiMA for an unprecedented 24 years (1984–2008) and as National President from 1993 to 1995. His leadership was instrumental in the unbundling of ZiMA into specialized affiliate associations, fostering academic excellence and improved clinical care nationwide.
Mr Tarumbwa’s legacy also includes the development of medical practice tariffs in Zimbabwe, modeled on the California Tariff. He authored four tariff books for ZiMA and served as an Honorary Lecturer at NUST Medical School and an external examiner at the University of Zimbabwe Medical School.
“Mr Tarumbwa was also responsible for developing the Medical practice tariffs currently in use in the country. He developed and penned four tariff books for ZiMA, modelled on the California Tariff. He served as an Honorary Lecture for NUST Medical School, an external examiner at the University of Zimbabwe Medical School, and a peer review resource person for professional colleagues in the country,” said ZiMA.
ZiMA said beyond his professional achievements, Mr Tarumbwa was known for his warm personality, infectious laugh, and humorous anecdotes.
His colleagues and loved ones remember him as a pleasant and easygoing individual who brought joy to those around him.
Mr Tarumbwa is survived by his wife, Dorcas, four daughters, and several grandchildren. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his legacy of service, mentorship, and dedication to humanity will endure.
Born on 2 September 1951, in Old Highfield Township, Harare, Mr Tarumbwa grew up in a family of four brothers and one sister.
His academic journey began at St Augustine Secondary School in Penhalonga, where his talent for drama and school plays earned him popularity among his peers. His academic excellence paved the way for his admission to the Godfrey Huggins School of Medicine at the University of Rhodesia in 1972, where he graduated with an MBChB in 1976.
Mr Tarumbwa’s career took root at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo, where he began as an intern in 1977. Under the mentorship of renowned surgeons, he rose through the ranks to become a Senior Registrar. His passion for jazz and soul music, coupled with his love for life, made him a well-rounded and beloved figure.
It was at Mpilo that he met his future wife, Dorcas, a student nurse who later became a Nursing Sister. Together, they built a life in Hillside Suburbs and raised four daughters.
In 1980, Mr Tarumbwa pursued specialist training in general surgery at The Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh, Scotland. Upon his return, he became a fearless and respected surgeon at Mpilo and United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH).
In 1985, he assumed the role of Medical Superintendent at UBH, a position he held until July 2000. He continued to serve as a Senior General Surgeon until his retirement on September 2, 2016.
Vusumuzi Dube
