KEY POINTS
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Dr. Sikipa’s leadership reduced Zimbabwe’s HIV prevalence by over 50% through groundbreaking WHO-backed strategies.
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His 20-year cancer battle underscored systemic gaps in Zimbabwe’s oncology care, despite his advocacy for improved funding.
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Acting President Chiwenga and global health leaders lauded his dual legacy in family, policy, and medical training.
Acting President Dr. Constantino Chiwenga has paid heartfelt tribute to Dr. Godfrey Gwaze Sikipa, the former Permanent Secretary of Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Health and Child Care, who passed away on May 5 after a 20-year battle with cancer. Dr. Sikipa, a linchpin in the nation’s public health sector, was hailed for his transformative role in combating HIV/AIDS and shaping regional medical strategies.
“A dark cloud fell over Zimbabwe’s medical fraternity as we lost a stalwart who dedicated his life to healing others, even as he fought his own private battle,” said Dr. Chiwenga in a statement. “His contributions to HIV care and training of medical professionals remain indelible. Zimbabwe’s progress in health owes much to his relentless work.”
Dr. Sikipa, a 1976 medical graduate, rose to prominence as the Lead Writer of the World Health Organization’s National HIV Care and Treatment Strategy (2013–2017), which slashed Zimbabwe’s HIV prevalence rate from 27% in 2000 to 11.9% by 2024. He also spearheaded the Resilient and Sustainable Systems for Health (RSSP) initiative, which strengthened rural healthcare access for over 3 million Zimbabweans.
Sikipa: Decades of service collide with personal battle against cancer
Despite his public triumphs, Dr. Sikipa faced a private struggle, diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2005. Colleagues recall his unwavering commitment to work even during treatment. “He chaired meetings from his hospital bed, determined to see Zimbabwe’s health system thrive,” said Dr. Tendai Mhaka, a former deputy at the Health Ministry.
Herald online reports that his death coincides with renewed scrutiny of Zimbabwe’s healthcare infrastructure, which faces drug shortages and staffing gaps. The nation’s cancer treatment capacity remains limited, with only three radiotherapy machines serving a population of 16 million. Dr. Sikipa’s advocacy for increased oncology funding in 2022 had begun gaining traction, with a 15% budget boost allocated last year.
Acting President Chiwenga extended condolences to Dr. Sikipa’s widow, Mrs. Dolly Sikipa, and their four sons, noting his dual legacy as a family man and public servant. “His absence leaves a void no policy can fill,” added Dr. Chiwenga.
Tributes poured in globally, including from the WHO’s Africa Director, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who called Dr. Sikipa “a visionary who turned Zimbabwe into a model for HIV response.” Local NGOs highlighted his push for affordable antiretroviral drugs, which now reach 1.2 million Zimbabweans.
