In Memoriam: Honouring the Life of Brigadier General Excellent Xolani Currie Brigadier General Excellent Xolani Currie was born on November 23, 1962, in Alice, a small town in the Eastern Cape. He is the son of the late Nonceba Macisane Currie and Dickson Mkhaza. Brig Gen Currie embarked on his educational path at Gilton Primary School, where he received his primary schooling. His commitment to education led him to complete his matric at Mpambani-Mzimba High School in Alice. His career began when he secured his first job as an Administration Clerk at the University of Fort Hare in Alice. While at the University of Fort Hare, he aspired to further his education and applied to study Radiography at Pelonomi Hospital through the Free State Technikon. In 1982, his dedication paid off when he was accepted into the program. Brig Gen Currie successfully completed his Radiography studies in 1984, a testament to his academic perseverance. Subsequently, in April 1985, he joined Garankuwa Hospital, now known as Dr George Mukhari Hospital, where he devoted his skills and expertise until December 1990. In January 1991, he took another significant step in his career by joining MEDUNSA as a Radiography lecturer. Brig Gen Currie's academic achievements were both extensive and diverse. He earned a Postgraduate Diploma in International Research Ethics from the University of Cape Town in 2007, a Master of Public Health with a specialization in Health Systems Management and Epidemiology (Cum Laude) from MEDUNSA in 2003, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from
UNISA in 1989, majoring in Anthropology and Psychology. He integrated into the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) in February 1996, following his earlier service with uMkhonto weSizwe, the military arm of the African National Congress (ANC). Throughout his military career, Brig Gen Currie held various positions, each a testament to his leadership and expertise. His contributions as the Director Ancillary Health in the South African Military Health Service Headquarters were invaluable. Before this, he served in roles such as Senior Staff Officer Ancillary Health, Officer Commanding Project Phidisa, and Regulatory Oversight and Ethics Committee Manager for Project Phidisa. His dedication to advancing medical research ethics and health systems was evident in his numerous accomplishments. Gen Currie played a pivotal role during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, serving as the Chairperson of the COVID-19 committee for the military health, where his guidance and dedication made a significant impact. He specialised in the field of clinical research, presenting papers and publishing significant work. And he also took the initiative to promote health research through his involvement in the Surgeon General's Academic Days, a platform for the South African Military Health Service professionals and its stakeholders to share their health research projects. Brig Gen Currie's remarkable
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service was acknowledged with several medals in recognition of his dedication to the SANDF. These included the Unitas Medal, the SA Service Medal for internal operations, the loyal Service Medal for 10 years of service in uMkhonto weSizwe (SMB MK), and the General Service Medal for 20 years of service (PF-SILVER), along with a 30 years certificate of long service. In January 2020, he reached a significant milestone, completing 40 years of dedicated service. He is survived by his wife, Mrs Pamela Currie his three children, Anda, Xolani Jnr and Avuziwe.
Lala Ngoxolo!!
SUNRISE– 23/11/1962 SUNSET– 20/10/2023
Article by SAMHS Corporate Communication
