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Joseph Madzimure
Senior Reporter
Our Senior Reporter Joseph Madzimure (JM) caught up with Dr Johannes Marisa (Dr JM) who played a critical role in the fight against Covid-19 at its infancy. Dr Marisa was one of the few doctors who served the Sakudya family in Ruwa, some of the first victims of Covid-19 in Zimbabwe. The Herald tracked him to get an insight of his experience.

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JM: Who is Dr Marisa?

Dr JM: Dr Marisa was born on 12 Dec 1981 in Masvingo, the 7th born amongst nine siblings. Grew up in Nyajena, Masvingo. I went to Chitakai Primary School then Zimuto High for my Ordinary level and finished in 1997. I did my Advanced level at Moleli High School and enrolled at the University of Zimbabwe School of Medicine where I graduated with a Bachelor in Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) in 2005.

JM: What drove you to become a medical doctor and who inspired you?

Dr JM: I have been quite passionate about medicine for a long time taking considering how the communities have been ravaged by the HIV pandemic. I have lost many relatives and friends to HIV and it was always my belief that my little contribution to the community would change the health tide one day.

The whole community I grew up in had one medical doctor, the late Dr Emmanuel Magoche, who would come during festive seasons to buy sweets and biscuits for us as kids. I felt it in my heart that I should be someone like him.

JM: During the outbreak of Covid-19, you saved a family of five in Ruwa who were affected by the pandemic. How was it like? Give us your experience?

Dr JM: Yes Covid-19 wreaked havoc and the effects were unbearable. The diabolical nature of the virus mesmerised everyone. We were at first unprepared and unsure of what was supposed to be done until we realised the true pathogenesis of the virus. It was a pity that at times we could not even sleep at home because of the pressure from patients.

There was a serious demand for oxygen, drugs, sundries like masks, but we managed.

My wife, a nurse, stood firm to give maximum morale and motivation. Fear started to wane off and it was time to face reality as we battled the heinous virus.

That saw me writing many articles in the newspapers, disseminating as much information as possible to allay fear and uncertainty.

I was on radio, TV, foreign media platforms defending the country when everyone thought Zimbabwe would be wiped out considering the misconception about our health service delivery.

However, we won and our official deaths from Covid-19 did not surpass 6 000 till today. Government acted with speed to execute all the necessary public health measures.

Personally, I attended to over a thousand of Covid-19 patients and on three occasions I tested positive, including to the dreaded Delta variant.

JM: Your word of advice to the current crop of aspiring doctors.

Dr JM: Medicine is a delicate field that needs passion, patience, tolerance and love and discipline.

We see many people from different backgrounds, all pin hopes on us as medical practitioners. Medical ethics have to be followed and patriotism is desired. If all of us leave for foreign soils, then no one will be left behind to cater for the nation.

That’s why I always plead with Government to reward all healthcare workers who are servicing Zimbabwe irrespective of one being in the private or public sector. I requested the President of Zimbabwe, His Excellency Dr Mnangagwa to consider medical practitioners for farms and duty free vehicles.

The medical practitioners continue to stand tall against all odds. In which the President responded positively, so its high time doctors should give first preference to their country.

JM: You are a man of many jackets, in terms of educational qualifications. Tells us more about it?

Dr JM: Of course it has always been my belief that school should be a process and not an event. I feel I need to continue studying so that I happen to know what is necessary for personal, societal and national development.

I am completing my 5th Masters degree in Strategic Management after having acquired four in Public Health, Business Administration, Development Studies and Educational Management. I also did a Doctorate in Business Administration and Leadership. That makes them seven as of now, but am hoping to start Law in January this coming year. Education has no end for sure.

JM: Your advice to the youth.

Dr JM: Youths have been embroiled in numerous shenanigans and chief among them is drug abuse. Abstain from drug abuse, get the maximum qualifications and do not stop to pursue your goals. Everything is achievable if you dedicate your energy and heart.