Popular doctor dies

A POPULAR Nyanga-based medical doctor, Dr Henry Karadzai Dambanemwuya, has died. He was 60. The passionate medical practitioner who worked in the resort village for more than 26 years was found dead in his house on Monday morning due to diabetes complications.

He is survived by wife, Mary and four children. Dr Damba, as he was affectionately known, started his medical career at Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo after graduating at the University of Zimbabwe in 1981.

He was then moved to Mutare Provincial Hospital two years later before being transferred to Nyanga District Hospital in 1984 as a District Medical Officer. In 1989 he opened a private surgery after retiring from public service, which came to be known as Nyanga Family Clinic.

He has been working there up to the time of his death.

"My husband had a genuine interest in operating patients and was very much comfortable with the world of scissors. I still remember he used to offer free theatre service to the hospital (Nyanga) every Thursdays," said late doctor's wife, Mary.

Nyanga Medical Officer, Dr Admore Jokwiro, said: "He was a reliable and experienced doctor who devoted his time to teach young doctors and assist in reviewing patients.

"He did not leave the country for greener pastures when things were tough as he had the community at heart. His loss will be felt by both staff and the community."

Dr Damba was laid to rest last Thursday at his rural home in Chitakatira Village in Mutare District.