By Munacho Gwamanda-Distinguished biochemist and Midlands State University (MSU) founding Medicine and Health Sciences Faculty, has died.

He was 41.

The senior biochemistry lecturer passed away on Friday in Harare following complications from a failed surgery. 

He will be laid to rest in his hometown, Beitbridge.

Muleya played an instrumental role in the establishment of MSU’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in 2016, working alongside the late Vice-Chancellor Professor Ngwabi Bhebhe and founding dean Dr. Reginald Matchaba-Hove. 

His efforts helped shape the medical education landscape in Zimbabwe, ensuring that MSU became a major contributor to the country’s healthcare training.

Dr. Muleya was deeply engaged in medical research, with a focus on biochemistry, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical sciences. 

His academic journey took him across continents, earning degrees from the University of Zimbabwe, the University of the Western Cape in South Africa, and Monash University in Australia.

After obtaining his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology from Monash University in 2015, where he conducted groundbreaking research on the mechanistic modulation of GC-linked receptor kinase, PSKR1, Muleya had opportunities to pursue a career abroad. 

However, he chose to return to Zimbabwe to contribute to the country’s medical education and healthcare sector. 

His dedication led him to MSU, where he played a pivotal role in curriculum development and the training of future healthcare professionals.

Beyond academia, Muleya was committed to community health and scientific advancement.

His work extended to community outreach programs aimed at improving healthcare access in underserved areas. 

He was also an active member of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society of Zimbabwe, where he collaborated on key research initiatives.

Professor Stanley Mukanganyama, President of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society of Zimbabwe and Muleya’s former lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe, paid tribute to his contributions:

“Dr. Muleya was an esteemed biochemist, educator, and researcher whose work in biochemistry and molecular cell biology has left an indelible mark. He was a pillar in the scientific community, known for his commitment to excellence and knowledge-sharing.”

Mukanganyama further highlighted Muleya’s exceptional academic record:

“I had the opportunity to teach and supervise him at the undergraduate level. He obtained a first-class grade for his project and graduated with an overall first-class Honours degree in Biochemistry from the University of Zimbabwe.”

Muleya’s passion for scientific discovery and education continues to inspire many in Zimbabwe and beyond.

His contributions to research, curriculum development, and healthcare outreach have cemented his place as a transformative figure in the country’s medical and scientific community.

His passing is a profound loss to the academic and medical fraternity, but his legacy will endure through the professionals he trained and the knowledge he imparted. 

He leaves behind a generation of scientists and healthcare workers who will carry forward his vision of excellence and innovation in medical sciences.