Source: Zim medical pioneer Nathoo dies – herald
Spiwe Sarakunze
Herald Reporter
DISTINGUISHED medical pioneer in Zimbabwe, Professor Kusum Nathoo, who died on Monday, is set to be buried today at Pioneer Cemetery in Harare. She was 82.
Born in Bulawayo in 1943, her life was marked by a tireless commitment to her community and the medical profession, leaving behind a legacy that is expected to inspire generations.
Dr Vivek Solanki, a family friend and neighbour for over 80 years, shared his reflections yesterday.
“I have known Professor Kusum Nathoo my entire life. She shaped my medical profession and guided my attitude and compassion,” he said.
Nearly every doctor and nurse trained in Zimbabwe since 1980 is said to have been influenced by her teachings.
In the early 1990s, Prof Nathoo established herself as a leader in her field, becoming a Professor, senior lecturer and paediatric consultant.
She played a pivotal role in creating Zimbabwe’s Paediatric Specialist Training Programme.
Prof Nathoo’s groundbreaking work in paediatrics covered critical areas such as epidemiology, HIV/AIDS, infectious diseases, diarrhoea, pneumonia, renal disease, neonatology, and childhood vaccination.
With over 150 published research papers, she earned immense respect in medical circles across Africa and the United Kingdom.
Her unwavering dedication to child health was matched by her passion for education.
Said Dr Solanki: “Thousands of Zimbabwean healthcare professionals credit her as a teacher, mentor and guide.”
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