derick.khumalo
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
[email protected]
A journalism giant breathed his last yesterday at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo.
Within the industry, he was known as Mkhays, his real name Mkhululi Sibanda.
Mkhays left us at the age of 55, leaving behind a daughter and two sons.
The media fraternity, upon getting the devastating news, erupted with glowing memories. Mkhays touched lives, Mkhays touched families, Mkhays was and remains a journalism doyen.
They’re speaking.
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 on 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 very capable editor who led from the front. We grew up together, from being cub reporters, to seniors, and editors. He remained humble and always hardworking. Mkhays liked those stories that demanded the whole of a journalist, such as stories about history, culture and people. His ‘Lest we forgot‘ weekly column about the liberation struggle has come to define and distinguish the Sunday News, and indeed Mkhays himself, from the rest. He went deeper, and had the patience to listen, ask and record. We will miss his humility, his work ethic, and his warm personality. God has taken the best.
Nkosilathi Sibanda
His death is a great loss, not only to his family but 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 was always willing to share his knowledge and experience, reminding us that journalism is about truth, integrity, and serving the public. I will always cherish the conversations we had, 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 his arrival at the Chronicle in 2004 from Ziana, Mkhululi distinguished himself through his sharp journalism, meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to truth. His infectious laughter lit up the newsroom, reminding us that even in the most demanding moments, joy had a place.
As News Editor, he mentored countless junior reporters and interns, generously sharing the wealth of experience he carried from Ziana. I had the privilege of working alongside as his Managing Editor at the Chronicle, witnessing firsthand his growth, professionalism, and dedication. I also had the priviledge to lecture him at NUST when he enrolled for his MSc in Journalism and Media Studies. Mkhululi’s legacy will live on in many journalists he guided and the stories he told with integrity.
I challenge Zimpapers to honour his contribution by publishing a book from his profiles of 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
A very good guy both at a personal and professional level. I worked well with Mkhays especially when he was the Chronicle News Editor and I was Chief Sub Editor. We were a good team, and we formed a symbiotic relationship. He was good at grooming reporters. Many journalists walked into the newsroom struggling to write stories and in time he turned them into stars. For over 5 years, we had lunch together koAli Baba’s place and Mkays was always jovial and knowledgeable especially about the politics of the day. I am shocked and devasted.
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
Mina uMkhays wathi kimi when I joined uMthunywa, wena vele asikwazi, awumangalisi ukuthi ubukhuluma kuradio. Umtshele uBJ ukuthi ngitshonjalo. It was two or so months that we found each other.
Mourners are gathered at House number R65 Mzilikazi.
