News / National
Chiwenga mourns again
16 May 2025 at 10:57hrs | Views
Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has expressed deep condolences following the death of Dr Godfrey Gwaze Sikipa, a former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, who succumbed last week to cancer-related complications.
Dr Sikipa, a distinguished medical doctor and public health advocate, is fondly remembered for his unwavering dedication to improving health outcomes in Zimbabwe. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he held key roles within the Ministry of Health, including Medical Officer, Provincial Medical Director, and Permanent Secretary. From 2018 to 2023, he also served as a Health Advisor to the Presidential Advisory Council.
In his tribute, Vice-President Chiwenga praised Dr Sikipa's tireless commitment, especially during Zimbabwe's battle with the HIV and AIDS epidemic. He played a pivotal role in training healthcare professionals and expanding access to life-saving treatments.
"A dark cloud fell over Zimbabwe's medical fraternity on May 5, 2025, as one of the nation's most steadfast medical practitioners, Dr Godfrey Gwaze Sikipa, lost his courageous two-decade battle with cancer," said Dr Chiwenga.
Graduating as a medical doctor in 1976, Dr Sikipa continued to advance his knowledge throughout his career, focusing on critical health challenges. He was instrumental in shaping Zimbabwe's National HIV Care and Treatment Strategy (2013–2017) in collaboration with the World Health Organization and led initiatives such as the Resilient and Sustainable Systems for Health (RSSP) proposal.
"Dr Sikipa's contributions are reflected in the milestones Zimbabwe celebrates today. The nation has lost not only a brilliant mind and medical expert, but also a deeply passionate health practitioner," the Vice-President added.
Born in Goromonzi, Mashonaland East, Dr Sikipa joined the Ministry of Health in 1981 and quickly made an impact, particularly in reducing high maternal and child mortality rates. He earned a Master's degree in Maternal and Child Health from the Institute of Child Health in the United Kingdom.
He served as Provincial Medical Director from 1984 to 1990 before his appointment as Permanent Secretary from 1990 to 1992. Throughout his career, Dr Sikipa demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision, which left a lasting legacy in Zimbabwe's health sector.
Vice-President Chiwenga extended heartfelt condolences to Dr Sikipa's family, including his wife, Mrs Dolly Sikipa, their four sons, and five grandchildren.
"Indeed, he marked his time with outstanding contributions to his country, particularly in preserving human life. May his soul rest in eternal peace," he concluded.
Dr Sikipa, a distinguished medical doctor and public health advocate, is fondly remembered for his unwavering dedication to improving health outcomes in Zimbabwe. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he held key roles within the Ministry of Health, including Medical Officer, Provincial Medical Director, and Permanent Secretary. From 2018 to 2023, he also served as a Health Advisor to the Presidential Advisory Council.
In his tribute, Vice-President Chiwenga praised Dr Sikipa's tireless commitment, especially during Zimbabwe's battle with the HIV and AIDS epidemic. He played a pivotal role in training healthcare professionals and expanding access to life-saving treatments.
"A dark cloud fell over Zimbabwe's medical fraternity on May 5, 2025, as one of the nation's most steadfast medical practitioners, Dr Godfrey Gwaze Sikipa, lost his courageous two-decade battle with cancer," said Dr Chiwenga.
Graduating as a medical doctor in 1976, Dr Sikipa continued to advance his knowledge throughout his career, focusing on critical health challenges. He was instrumental in shaping Zimbabwe's National HIV Care and Treatment Strategy (2013–2017) in collaboration with the World Health Organization and led initiatives such as the Resilient and Sustainable Systems for Health (RSSP) proposal.
"Dr Sikipa's contributions are reflected in the milestones Zimbabwe celebrates today. The nation has lost not only a brilliant mind and medical expert, but also a deeply passionate health practitioner," the Vice-President added.
Born in Goromonzi, Mashonaland East, Dr Sikipa joined the Ministry of Health in 1981 and quickly made an impact, particularly in reducing high maternal and child mortality rates. He earned a Master's degree in Maternal and Child Health from the Institute of Child Health in the United Kingdom.
He served as Provincial Medical Director from 1984 to 1990 before his appointment as Permanent Secretary from 1990 to 1992. Throughout his career, Dr Sikipa demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision, which left a lasting legacy in Zimbabwe's health sector.
Vice-President Chiwenga extended heartfelt condolences to Dr Sikipa's family, including his wife, Mrs Dolly Sikipa, their four sons, and five grandchildren.
"Indeed, he marked his time with outstanding contributions to his country, particularly in preserving human life. May his soul rest in eternal peace," he concluded.
Source - the herald
