Origins of Varichem Pharmaceuticals
Varichem was founded on July 1, 1985, by three entrepreneurial colleagues from Tobias Dzangare (pharmacist), Celestine Gadzikwa (finance manager), and Glory Zata—sparked by a shared conviction to produce cost-effective, high-quality healthcare products in Zimbabwe.
The founding trio recognized a gap in Zimbabwe’s pharmaceutical landscape and decided to harness complementary skills—Dzangare’s technical expertise, Gadzikwa’s financial acumen, and Zata’s operational drive—to build their own venture. Lacking the capital for pharmaceuticals, they initially registered a small business to manufacture automotive brake fluid and lubricants. This permitted them to generate seed capital and prove their operational capabilities in a less regulated market.
Our Mission
To manufacture safe, affordable, and effective medicines that support better health outcomes across Zimbabwe and Africa.
Our Vision
To be a trusted leader in African pharmaceutical manufacturing — driven by innovation, accessibility, and impact.
- Innovation
- Transparency
- Teamwork
- Quality
Our Milestones
Varichem is established
Opening of Greenwood Pharmacy retail chain
Completion of Gleneagles manufacturing plant
Granted compulsory license to produce antiretroviral drugs (ARVs)
See Our Latest Blog
Legacy in Motion: A Conversation with Mr. Dzangare
“The early days were defined by belief—belief in our people, our purpose, and our potential. We didn’t have guarantees, but we had grit. That’s what carried us.”
Reflections From Mr Gadzikwa
Mr Gadzikwa traces Varichem’s origins to a small chemistry lecture hall at the University of Zimbabwe in 1983. Frustrated by chronic drug shortages and inspired…
