Zimbabwean Researcher Dr Tapfumanei Mashe Wins Top Awards at Africa Health Excellence Ceremony

Zimbabwean public health researcher Dr Tapfumanei Mashe has won two major honours at the 2025 Africa Health Excellence Awards in Durban (image source)

Zimbabwean public health researcher Dr Tapfumanei Mashe has received two top honours at the 2025 Africa Health Excellence Awards in Durban, South Africa, in recognition of his influential work in infectious disease control and regional health policy. Mashe walked away with the Community Builder of the Year and Honorary Health Researcher of the Year awards, capping a career defined by scientific leadership and multi-sectoral innovation.

In a congratulatory message, the Ministry of Health and Child Care said the awards were a testament to Zimbabwe’s growing role in African health advancement. “These accolades reflect the dedication of Zimbabwean professionals to regional health excellence. We celebrate Dr Mashe’s achievements and his contribution to a healthier Africa,” the ministry said.

Mashe’s work has had tangible national impact, particularly his role in guiding the introduction of the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) in 2021, a milestone that significantly reduced outbreaks in vulnerable communities. He attributes the achievement to strong inter-ministerial collaboration. “Through coordination across government institutions, we brought together different stakeholders to solve health issues,” he said.

His influence, however, extends far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. A key paper he authored — detailing a multi-sectoral COVID-19 communication strategy that boosted prevention behaviours and vaccine uptake — was presented at both the World Health Assembly and the United Nations General Assembly. The work contributed directly to the Political Declaration on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), a landmark global commitment for member states to intensify action against drug-resistant microbes.

Mashe began his career as a volunteer scientist at the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory, where he pioneered Zimbabwe’s One Health and AMR programmes. Today, he serves as the country’s national AMR coordinator, a critical role as Africa faces rising antimicrobial resistance and heightened vulnerability to epidemics. Colleagues describe him as a bridge-builder whose science-driven approach has helped align ministries, development partners and global health institutions.

The Durban awards not only honour Mashe’s individual achievements but also highlight the increasing international visibility of Zimbabwean health scientists. As the country works to strengthen its healthcare systems, his recognition stands as a national point of pride — and a reminder of Zimbabwe’s growing capacity to shape Africa’s health agenda.