President Emmerson Mnangagwa has awarded a US$50 000 token of appreciation to world-renowned Matobo District-born medical scientist and virologist, Dr Sikhulile Moyo, who is now based in Botswana.
Dr Moyo was credited with detecting the coronavirus variant B.1.1.529, also known as Omicron in November last year during his routine work.
The US$50 000 token of appreciation is in recognition of Dr Moyo’s contribution to saving humanity after he discovered the deadly coronavirus strain.
The medical doctor is at home for a holiday and organised the celebration for his achievement with his village counterparts.
The party was attended by Dr Moyo’s family, friends and Government officials.
Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister, Amon Murwira, handed over the Presidential gift to Dr Moyo on Monday at his rural home in Donkwe-Donkwe near Kezi, Matabeleland South. Said Murwira:
In this regard, His Excellency, the President Dr E.D. Mnangagwa in recognition of this great scientific achievement, is actually looking into the most appropriate excellence award to be given nationally to Dr Moyo.
It means the big thing is coming. However, in the meantime, His Excellency, the President Dr E.D. Mnangagwa presents this token.
This is just a token of appreciation to Dr Moyo on behalf of Government and people of Zimbabwe, of US$50 000.
It’s not only in Zimbabwe, not only southern Africa but the globe. His Excellency, the President is elated with the achievement of this son of the soil.
We know that Dr Moyo won international awards and nominations that have placed Zimbabwe and Africa on the world map; that include Festus Mogae Award of HIV research, the Martin Luther King Jr Humanitarian Award, the German
Africa Award 2022, Time 100 Most Influential People in the World 2022, New African Award top 100 most influential Africans 2022.
These awards are a testimony to the excellence in scientific research by Dr Moyo. Scientific research that leads to the betterment of humanity.
In his remarks, Dr Moyo said he was humbled by the recognition and honour bestowed on him by the Government. He said:
These awards and this honour from Government is to say we recognise talent, we recognise you for working hard. It’s giving me energy to run and run with others.
It is a relay, you run and there are others that need to take the baton and identify abled others who can make a difference.
For collaboration, teamwork, there is no successful scientist who is an island. Even the awards I won there are scientists who I work with and I acknowledge them as their leader. That is the beauty of doing science.
Local MP who is also Primary and Secondary Education Deputy Minister, Edgar Moyo (ZANU PF), said Dr Moyo’s achievement is an inspiration to the country’s youth. |
