Online Reporter
Gabriel Masvora
THE passing on of former Sunday News Assistant Editor Mkhululi Sibanda on Friday last week has left a profound void in Zimbabwe’s journalism fraternity.
Beyond the respected editor and accomplished journalist, Mckays, as many of us affectionately called him, was a generous mentor, dependable colleague and true friend whose guidance and kindness touched many lives, including mine.
My journey with Mckays began in 2004 when I joined The Chronicle. Although I was assigned to the Features Desk (and he was News Editor), our paths crossed frequently, particularly during Sunday duty. From those early days, he took a keen interest in my growth as a young journalist, often calling me Mafana.
He never hesitated to offer advice, share his experience or encourage me to strive for excellence. His mentorship extended well beyond the newsroom, becoming the foundation of a lifelong friendship.
One of the things I will always treasure is the relationship we shared outside work. Inside the newsroom, he was my boss—tough, uncompromising and an accomplished editor who demanded nothing less than professionalism. The moment we stepped outside, however, we became friends. We laughed, joked and spoke freely like agemates, despite the years between us. That rare ability to separate work from friendship made him not only an exceptional leader but also an extraordinary human being.
I was privileged to attend his wedding, one of the most memorable occasions we shared. I remain grateful to have witnessed such a significant milestone in his life. It reflected the close bond we had built over the years and remains one of my fondest memories.
When Mckays joined Sunday News, where I was already serving as Business Editor, our professional relationship grew even stronger. He remained a dependable source of guidance and support. Later, when I was promoted to News Editor, he naturally became my senior sounding board.
He generously shared story ideas, news tips, valuable contacts and editorial wisdom that helped shape my own approach to journalism. Whenever I encountered a challenge, I knew I could count on him for honest advice and constructive criticism.
Our friendship extended beyond the newsroom. Fate would have it that our sons attended Milton Junior Primary School. Almost every morning we would meet while dropping the children off. Since we were already out that early, we often became the first people in the newsroom, using that extra time to discuss stories, current affairs, family and life in general.
The “school run” continued years later when our children attended John Tallach High School. Those school visits became another chapter in our friendship, proving that our relationship had long outgrown the workplace.
When I eventually left Sunday News in 2022, Mckays was among the first people to give me a by-line from the other side. While editing a story in which I had been quoted, he reached out with a message that still brings a smile to my face:
“Mafana, how is it? Send us your picture. We want to use it for your flood story.”
True to his thoughtful nature, he wanted readers to put a face to the story. It was a simple gesture, but one that perfectly captured the respect and encouragement he always extended to those around him.
Every time I travelled to Bulawayo, it became almost routine to stop by his office. Those visits were filled with laughter, discussions about journalism, reflections on current affairs and conversations about our families. They were moments I came to cherish.
Our last face-to-face conversation was during this year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in April. As always, it was a chance to catch up, laugh and exchange views on the latest developments. Although we would not meet again in person, our conversations never stopped. We remained in regular contact on WhatsApp, discussing journalism, national issues and life in general. His messages were always insightful, candid and encouraging.
When I received the news of his passing, my immediate reaction was to scroll through our WhatsApp conversations, hoping somehow that the news was not true and that I would see him ‘online’ once again.
Instead, what I found only confirmed the painful reality.
Last seen: Wed (1 July 2026) 14:45.
Really now, Mckays?
It was in that quiet moment that the reality truly sank in. There would be no more messages. No more phone calls. No more “Mafana.” No more “Svorex.” No more “Director.” Those familiar greetings that always signalled the beginning of another conversation had come to an end.
Mckays was more than an accomplished editor. He was a mentor who invested in others without expecting anything in return, a colleague who celebrated the success of those around him and a friend whose loyalty never wavered. His legacy will live on through the many journalists he mentored, the countless stories he helped shape and the enduring friendships he nurtured throughout his career.
As we bid farewell to Mkhululi Sibanda, we celebrate a life dedicated to truth, professionalism and service. His voice may be silent, but the impact he made on Zimbabwean journalism and on the lives of those privileged to know him will continue to resonate for generations.
Go well, Mckays.
When you settle in Heaven, I am sure that at exactly 9:00 AM, you’ll still do what you always did—look around the newsroom and call out, “Diaries, please!”
That familiar call will forever echo in our hearts, reminding us of the editor, mentor and friend we were privileged to know.
Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for the lessons, the laughter, the encouragement and above all, the friendship.
Rest easy, Boss.
