Bongani Ndlovu
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
THE John Landa Nkomo Memorial Trust has described the late veteran journalist and Sunday News Assistant Editor, Mkhululi Sibanda, as a dedicated custodian of Zimbabwe’s history whose contribution to preserving the country’s liberation heritage will remain an enduring legacy for generations to come.
In a statement of condolence following Mr Sibanda’s passing, the Trust said the nation had lost not only an accomplished journalist but also a committed historian who devoted his career to documenting the country’s liberation struggle and ensuring that the stories of freedom fighters were not forgotten.
“The John Landa Nkomo Memorial Trust joins the nation, the media fraternity and the Sibanda family in mourning the passing of veteran journalist and Sunday News Assistant Editor, Mkhululi Sibanda, whose death is a great loss to Zimbabwe,” the Trust said.
The Trust paid tribute to Mr Sibanda’s widely respected Lest We Forget column, saying it became an important platform for recording the experiences of liberation war veterans from both ZPRA and ZANLA, thereby making an invaluable contribution to safeguarding Zimbabwe’s national memory.
It said through meticulous research and balanced reporting, Mr Sibanda ensured that the sacrifices made by liberation heroes and heroines were documented for posterity, enabling younger generations to appreciate the country’s journey to independence.
The Trust said his commitment to historical truth, professionalism and ethical journalism earned him widespread respect among colleagues, readers and national leaders, while his passion for mentoring young journalists helped shape the next generation of media practitioners.
“The Memorial Trust particularly recognises Mr Sibanda’s dedication to documenting the sacrifices and contributions of liberation heroes and heroines, work that resonates strongly with our mandate of preserving the legacy and ideals of the late Vice President John Landa Nkomo and the broader liberation heritage of our nation,” the statement read.
The Trust said Mr Sibanda’s work would continue to educate, inspire and preserve Zimbabwe’s shared history long after his passing.
It extended its heartfelt condolences to the Sibanda family, friends, colleagues at Zimpapers and the entire journalism fraternity.
“As we mourn this remarkable son of Zimbabwe, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues at Zimpapers and the entire journalism fraternity. We take comfort in knowing that his work will continue to educate, inspire and preserve our shared history.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said the Trust.
Mkays, as he was affectionately known within the industry, died on Friday at Mater Dei Hospital. He is survived by two sons and a daughter.
Mr Sibanda will be buried at his rural home in Kezi on Friday.
Online Reporter