Copyright nehandaradio
HARARE – The family of the late Rosalie Chigariro has paid tribute to her extraordinary act of generosity after she became the first black Zimbabwean to donate her body to medical science at the University of Zimbabwe. Chigariro, who passed away in July 2021 in Johannesburg at the age of 64, had expressed her wish to contribute to medical education by donating her body to the University of Zimbabwe’s Department of Anatomy. Her family honoured that wish by contacting the University’s Biomedical Sciences Anatomy Unit under the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, where her body was used respectfully for teaching and research over the past four years. Following the conclusion of the university’s research, Chigariro’s remains were cremated on 24 October, a date that coincided with what would have been her birthday. Her daughter, Frances-Clare, described her mother’s decision as an act of “generosity and faith” that reflected her lifelong commitment to learning and service. “My mother chose to donate her body to medical science, becoming the first black Zimbabwean to do so. “Her body was received by the University of Zimbabwe’s Department of Anatomy, where it has been respectfully used for teaching and research over the past four years,” she told Nehanda Radio. On 1 November 2025, in a ceremony marked by quiet dignity and gratitude, members of the Anatomy Unit, students, and family representatives gathered to pay tribute to Ms. Chigariro. Speaking at the ceremony, Chairperson Chidaushe expressed the University’s deep appreciation for this rare and noble contribution. “The gift of body donation is one of the most profound forms of service to humanity. Through her selflessness, Ms. Chigariro became a silent teacher — one who helped nurture the next generation of doctors, surgeons, and health professionals,” said Chairperson Chidaushe. “We are deeply proud of her strength and the legacy she leaves behind. Today we say goodbye, not in sorrow, but in gratitude,” said her sister, Petronilla. Among those whose lives were touched by her legacy was Michelle van der Heiden, a Part Five medical student, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn through Ms. Chigariro’s gift, describing it as “a humbling and transformative experience that will forever shape how we serve patients.” Body donations to the University of Zimbabwe’s Anatomy Unit play a vital role in advancing medical science, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Ms. Chigariro is survived by her children GilChrist, Etheldreda, Paidamwoyo, and Frances-Clare, and eight grandchildren, who celebrate her life with love, pride, and gratitude. Her ashes were laid to rest on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Chishawasha Catholic Cemetery, this according to Claire was in keeping with her deep spiritual roots and lifelong connection to the Catholic community. The family added that they take great pride in Chigariro’s legacy. “Rosalie has made us very proud. She has left a legacy that we shall continue to guard with pride and joy,” they said.
