Dorcas Mafuva, 54, Reflects on 25 Years in Dublin After Moving from Zimbabwe in 2001

Dorcas Mafuva, 54, moved to Dublin from Zimbabwe in 2001 with her husband Lloyd, both nurses, due to Zimbabwe’s worsening economic climate. Initially considering the UK, they chose Ireland on a cousin’s advice, finding Dublin offered the most work opportunities. Mafuva has observed significant changes in Dublin over 25 years, noting increased crowding and traffic, which made her wish they had bought a house on the outskirts.

After buying a home in central Dublin, they faced racist abuse from neighbours and later their sons experienced similar incidents in certain areas. Mafuva also noted Ireland’s transformation into a more multicultural society. Her first winter in Ireland was challenging due to the cold, making her doubt her decision. She believes the cost of living and childcare are much worse for young families today compared to when they arrived.

Mafuva worked in a nursing home for five years while completing a BSc in Nursing Management at RCSI. She then transitioned to palliative care and rheumatology, completing a master’s to become an advanced nurse practitioner. Today, she is a fellow of RCSI, chairperson of the Irish Rheumatology Nursing Forum, and an assistant professor at University College Dublin, running a nurse-led clinic for fibromyalgia. Mafuva feels settled in Ireland, with several family members, including her mother, having also moved there.