THE late long-serving National Aids Council (NAC) communications director Medelina Dube has been described as a giant in the fight against HIV and Aids where she showcased her expertise for many years.
Dube died on Tuesday night.
Announcing her death yesterday, NAC chief executive Bernard Madzima hailed Dube for her contribution to the organisation.
“It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing on of our esteemed colleague and friend. She was an integral part of our leadership team and made invaluable contribution to the organisation,” he said.
“We extend our deepest condolences to her family, loved ones and colleagues. This is a very sad period for the entire NAC family. May we all find strength and comfort from the Lord during this difficult time.”
An expert in HIV issues, Martha Tholana, said Dube had left a void in communities as she was active in championing their cause.
“Waking up to the news of Ms Medelina Dube’s passing was a heart-breaking start for the new day. This is a sad loss for communities, advocates and activists, the HIV sector and the nation at large. She listened to us. She heard us. She guided us,” she said.
“Whether it was communications for the communities we live in, articulating our community position to leadership at various levels or crafting presentations for delivery at national, regional and global platforms, she was happy to guide us with effective ways to deliver our messages.”
- Econet to use Buddie Beatz app to grow local music
- Edutainment mix: The artist in the child policy formulation context
- Edutainment mix: The artist in the child policy formulation context
- Fact’s educational programme throws lineline to vulnerable groups
Keep Reading
Community Working Group on Health executive director Itai Rusike said the civil society in Zimbabwe had lost a giant in the fight against HIV and Aids.
“Medelina was a health promotion expert who worked at all levels of the health system, but related well to us in the trenches at community level and ensured linkages and inclusivity in the fight against HIV,” he said.
“As we say information is power and forewarned is forearmed, she ensured we all got the latest updates and that it permeated to all.
“This includes even during the time that her own health was failing, we still had communications from our communicator. We salute her and pray that she rests in eternal peace.”
Before joining NAC, Dube built her career as a radio journalist at the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC).
Her strong background in media and storytelling enabled her to champion effective health communication strategies once she assumed her role at NAC.
Dube’s contribution to NAC aided the country in achieving the 95-95-95 targets of ending Aids by 2030, which were attained way before the targeted timeline.
During her tenure, Dube and her communications team spearheaded several media engagement initiatives that strengthened the visibility and accuracy of HIV and Aids reporting in Zimbabwe.
Through her leadership, the HIV and Aids narrative gained prominence in the media, helping to shape public attitudes, influence behaviour, and rally communities behind the national HIV response.
Mourners are gathered at Number 7 Tiptol Close in Mandara, Harare.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
