Veteran Journalist Mkhululi Sibanda Dies

By A Correspondent | Zimbabwe’s journalism fraternity is mourning the death of veteran journalist and editor Mkhululi Sibanda, who passed away yesterday at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo after an illness. He was 55.

Affectionately known in media circles as “Mkhays”, Sibanda was widely regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s finest journalists, editors and mentors. Throughout a career spanning more than three decades, he distinguished himself through his commitment to quality journalism, professionalism and the mentoring of young reporters.

He leaves behind a daughter and two sons.

Sibanda built an illustrious career that saw him work for the former Zimbabwe Inter-Africa News Agency (Ziana) before joining the Chronicle, where he rose through the ranks to become News Editor. He later served as Editor of the Sunday News, earning widespread respect for his editorial leadership and his passion for documenting Zimbabwe’s liberation history through his acclaimed weekly column, “Lest We Forget.” His work focused on preserving the stories of liberation war veterans and ensuring that important chapters of Zimbabwe’s history were not forgotten.

Following news of his passing, journalists, editors and former colleagues paid glowing tributes, remembering him as a humble professional, an exceptional editor and a mentor who shaped the careers of many young journalists.Political activism resources

Nduduzo Tshuma
“Everyone, me included, who had the privilege of passing through his hands will attest to Mkhululi’s unwavering commitment to quality journalism and professional decorum. A devoted father to his two sons and daughter, he went above and beyond to ensure they received the best education possible.

“Beyond the newsroom, Mkhululi was a remarkable mentor, colleague and brother, always willing to guide and support others. His passion for telling Zimbabwe’s liberation story was unmatched, and it will remain an enduring part of the legacy he leaves behind.”

Methuseli Moyo
“Mkhays’ passing is a huge blow to the journalism family and indeed to his biological family. Mkhays was a decent human being, a diligent journalist and a highly capable editor who always led from the front.

“We grew up together, from being cub reporters to senior journalists and editors. He remained humble and hardworking throughout his career.

“Mkhays loved stories that demanded the very best of a journalist—stories about history, culture and people. His Lest We Forget weekly column came to define not only the Sunday News but also Mkhays himself. He went deeper, listened patiently, asked the right questions and preserved important historical narratives.

“We will miss his humility, work ethic and warm personality. God has taken one of the best.”

Nkosilathi Sibanda
“His death is a great loss, not only to his family but also to the journalism fraternity and everyone who had the privilege of working with him.

“Mkhululi was more than a colleague to me. He was a mentor, a source of encouragement and someone who believed in my abilities even when I was still finding my footing in journalism.

“His guidance, constructive advice and unwavering support played a significant role in shaping my career. He constantly reminded us that journalism is about truth, integrity and serving the public.

“I will always cherish our conversations, the lessons he taught me and the confidence he instilled in me.”

Thabani Mpofu
“It is with deep sorrow that I mourn the passing of Mkhululi Sibanda, a colleague and friend whose presence enriched our newsroom.

“Since joining the Chronicle from Ziana in 2004, Mkhululi distinguished himself through sharp journalism, meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to truth. His infectious laughter brightened the newsroom, reminding us that even during demanding times, there was always room for joy.


“As News Editor, he mentored countless junior reporters and interns, generously sharing the wealth of experience he brought from Ziana.News

“I had the privilege of working alongside him as his Managing Editor at the Chronicle, witnessing firsthand his professionalism, dedication and growth. I also had the honour of lecturing him at the National University of Science and Technology when he enrolled for his MSc in Journalism and Media Studies.

“Mkhululi’s legacy will live on through the many journalists he mentored and the stories he told with integrity.

“I challenge Zimpapers to honour his immense contribution by publishing a book compiling his profiles of Zimbabwe’s freedom fighters.

“May his soul rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in knowing how profoundly he touched the lives of those who worked with him.

“Lala ngokuthula, Dawu.”

Bhekinkosi Jakobe Ncube
“Mkhays was an exceptional person both professionally and personally. I worked closely with him when he was Chronicle News Editor and I was Chief Sub Editor. We formed a strong working relationship.

“He had an extraordinary ability to groom reporters. Many journalists joined the newsroom struggling to write stories, but under his mentorship they developed into outstanding journalists.

“For more than five years we shared lunch almost every day at Ali Baba’s, where he was always jovial, insightful and deeply knowledgeable about the politics of the day.Political activism resources

“I am shocked and devastated by his passing.”

Sikhumbuzo Moyo
Sikhumbuzo Moyo remembered Mkhays with humour, recalling one of their earliest interactions after he joined uMthunywa.

“Mina uMkhays wathi kimi when I joined uMthunywa, ‘Wena vele asikwazi, awumangalisi ukuthi ubukhuluma kuradio. Umtshele uBJ ukuthi ngitshonjalo.’ It was only about two months after we first met, but that was the kind of person he was—honest, humorous and memorable.”

The overwhelming tributes paint the picture of a journalist whose influence extended far beyond the stories he wrote. Colleagues remember Mkhululi Sibanda as an editor who nurtured talent, upheld the highest professional standards and remained committed to preserving Zimbabwe’s history through journalism.

Mourners are gathered at House Number R65, Mzilikazi, Bulawayo, as family, friends and colleagues continue to pay their respects.