Zimpapers mourns nurse

Herald Reporter

Fungayi Kaponda, a Zimpapers nurse, has died.

She was 38.

Her father, Mr Pepukai Victor Kaponda told The Herald yesterday that his daughter had succumbed to anaemia at their Belvedere home on September 26.

“Her death came as a shock to us. She died from anaemia, two days after she got treatment at a city hospital,” he said.

“Fungayi was a wonderful, caring and conscientious daughter, who loved her family, friends and relatives. She was very kind and generous. Her death is a huge blow to our family, community and the Zimpapers company she served well,” he said.

Kaponda’s death shocked many people, including her workmates at Zimpapers. Colleagues, friends and loved ones paid tribute to her dedication, professionalism and passion she showed in her work and life.

Zimpapers Harare branch human resources manager Mr Tinotenda Shumba described Fungayi as a dedicated employee.

“The late Fungayi Kaponda was a dedicated employee who always applied herself to work. She played a pivotal role in coming up with strong response towards the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We have lost a committed member who always stood for employee wellness. We will greatly miss her. May her dear soul rest in peace,” said Mr Shumba.

Messages of condolence came from colleagues working in Canada, UK, Tanzania and South Africa.

Kaponda supported Zimpapers staff with courage and commitment during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Kaponda was laid to rest yesterday at Mabvuku Cemetery. She was given a huge send off by colleagues, friends and relatives. 

She was born in Harare on September 28, 1983, a date she was buried.

Kaponda attended school at Chishawasha Primary School and St Albert High School in Centenary.

After completing her secondary education, she  enrolled for a top flight executive secretarial course at Silveira House.

After completing the course, she worked at Community Technology Development Trust, a Harare-based NGO, as a secretary before moving on to do a nursing training course at Sally Mugabe Hospital (formerly Harare Hospital).

Kaponda trained as a nurse from 2013 to 2017. After completing the course, she worked for City of Harare before joining Zimpapers in 2020.

She is survived by her parents and siblings Farai, Tamuka and Tapiwa.