Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe
Bulawayo Bureau
BULAWAYO Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube yesterday described the late broadcaster, Zvikomborero Sibanda, as an exceptional journalist who carried out her work with professionalism and dedication.
Popularly known as “Kombo” or “Zviko”, Sibanda died in Bulawayo last Wednesday at the age of 46. She was laid to rest yesterday at Athlone Cemetery in Bulawayo.
A packed church service at the Salvation Army Mpopoma branch drew a diverse crowd, including politicians from both Zanu PF and opposition parties, such as Zanu PF Bulawayo provincial chairman Cde Jabulani Sibanda, Pelandaba-Tshabalala Member of Parliament Joe Tshuma, former legislator Temba Mliswa, Ward 9 Bulawayo Councillor Donaldson Mabuto, as well as numerous journalists and friends.
In her graveside eulogy, Minister Ncube praised Sibanda’s commitment to journalism, saying she told Zimbabwe’s story with honesty and without exaggeration.
“On behalf of the Government, I bring President Mnangagwa’s condolences. The Bulawayo office stands with the family during this difficult time,” she said.
“Her contribution to the nation was immense. We are proud of journalists like her who portray Zimbabwe’s true story. She was talented and gifted, and I always looked forward to watching her broadcasts. Her presentation was captivating”.
Veteran journalist Tapfuma Machakaire highlighted Sibanda’s adaptability, noting that she excelled even in challenging times within the media landscape.
“She joined broadcasting at a time of major reshuffles at the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, which meant she had to take on multiple roles. As a young journalist, she was deployed to head the Midlands Bureau before later being appointed executive producer for News Hour,” he said.
“Despite the demands of the job, she performed exceptionally well, earning the respect of her peers.”
Several journalists reflected on Sibanda’s impact on the profession. Former ZBC newsreader, Sugar Chagonda, recalled their close working relationship.
Zimbabwe Independent Editor Faith Zaba, who also worked with Zvikomborero at ZBC, said: “I worked with Kombo in 2002 at ZBC when I was a news editor. She was a trailblazer and an inspiration for female journalists. At a time when few women took centre stage in the newsroom, she stood tall.”
