The Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, has expressed “great sadness” at the passing of veteran ZBC journalist Janet Munyaka.

“It is with great sadness that we learnt of the passing away of one of the country’s veteran female journalists, Janet Munyaka,” the minister said in a statement. 

“I have known Janet for many years and am devastated to learn of her passing. She was a strong, hardworking, accomplished and able journalist.

“The public broadcaster, the journalism fraternity and indeed the nation is poorer without Janet.”

Munyaka (48), succumbed to Covid-19 Saturday evening after being hospitalised at a Harare hospital for more than a week.

Colleagues and friends immediately took to social media to express shock and sadness at her passing, the tragedy coming a few days after indications were that she was recovering.

“On behalf of Government, I wish to express heartfelt condolences to the Munyaka family, her workmates, the journalism fraternity, her friends and Zimbabweans in general,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.”

“May you find solace and comfort in the good work that Janet did for her country. We have lost a great champion, a wonderful person, and a dear friend.

“Janet, you were a role model for up and coming journalists in an environment where few women are recognized. We will miss you, may your dear soul rest in peace.”

Munyaka, who joined the ZBC in 2000, is survived by husband Jackson and their four children.

Mourners were Saturday night gathering at the family home in Harare’s Westgate area.

-State Media