Online Reporter
Online Reporter
What began as a routine news assignment turned into an unexpected online sensation for Zimpapers senior reporter, Sikhumbuzo Moyo.
On Monday afternoon, Moyo was among the first journalists at the scene of a fire that destroyed a house in the Burnside suburb. The Bulawayo Fire Brigade, under the command of Chief Fire Officer Mr Mhlangano Moyo, battled tirelessly to contain the blaze while ensuring residents were safe.
Reflecting on the incident, Sikhumbuzo shared his experience with this reporter: “Upon arriving at the burning house, we quickly assessed the scene to determine the extent of the damage. Being a human being first and reporter second, it was just impossible not to feel that inner voice whispering, ‘what if this had befallen any of my relatives or those close to me?’
“We later learnt that the homeowners, Mr and Mrs Rowlands, were away on holiday in Switzerland,” said Sikhumbuzo.
“In my mind, I pictured how the Rowlands must have felt, receiving that call while likely soaking in the breathtaking Alpine scenery and enjoying Swiss hospitality. Shattering!
“Standing there, the heat from the flames searing my skin and the acrid smoke burning my throat, I felt the weight of the Rowlands’ loss.”
Besides the destroyed household property, a vehicle parked in the garage was reduced to a shell — a tragic sight that stunned onlookers.
“Around me, neighbours stood frozen, some with their hands on their heads, others murmuring prayers as the firefighters battled to tame the blaze. For a moment, my notebook felt heavy, almost out of place.
“It’s in scenes like this that you realise journalism isn’t just about recording facts; it’s about carrying people’s pain and translating it into words that others can feel. These are not everyday assignments; they linger long after the last ember dies out.”
But in the midst of documenting the grim scene, Sikhumbuzo knew his readers and viewers needed more than just words.
“I decided to do a short visual report. My colleague Nomaliso Gumpo used my mobile phone for the process. It actually took about four ‘cut, cut!’ moments before we came up with the final product.”
That final cut has since taken on a life of its own, clocking over 78 000 views, as of Tuesday morning, on the Chronicle Zimbabwe Facebook page and turning Sikhumbuzo’s report into a trending piece of content.
“It’s humbling to see the response. At the end of the day, it’s about bringing the story closer to the people, even if it means a few bloopers along the way.”
The fire has sparked conversations across the community, with residents urging one another to avoid lighting fires during this season. In a side interview, Environmental Management Agency spokesperson Mrs Amkela Sidange told Sikhumbuzo that since the onset of this year’s fire season, they have recorded 419 fire incidents that have destroyed over 116 000 hectares of land.
“Although this is lower than what we had recorded during the same period last year, when we had 1 856 fire incidents that went on to destroy over 490 000 hectares of land, it does not mean we need to relax. We need to increase alertness as temperatures pick up, the environment dries up, and also the prevailing windy conditions all call for undivided alertness to fires by everyone,” Mrs Sidange said.
Below are five quick questions with Sikhumbuzo:
Q: How many times did you have to redo the recording until you got it right?
A: About four. I kept saying “cut, cut!” until we got it right.
Q: Who was behind the camera?
A: My colleague, Nomalisa Gumpo. She deserves half the credit!
Q: Were you anxious being on camera?
A: A bit, but once you start, it’s like talking to your readers directly.
Q: How does it feel to see your video rack up over 78 000 views?
A: Honestly? Surprised and humbled. I didn’t expect it to trend.
Q: Should we look forward to more videos from Sikhumbuzo?
A: Definitely! But I promise, no more bloopers.
ikhumbuzo?
A: Definitely! But I promise, no more bloopers.
