By Munacho Gwamanada-Veteran Zimbabwean journalist and long-serving BBC World Service correspondent Lewis Machipisa, was laid to rest in London on Thursday, nearly two months after his passing. 

Machipisa, who dedicated his life to journalism and was widely respected for his humility and professionalism, died in his sleep at his home in Catford, Southeast London, on January 7, 2025. 

He was 52.

His burial was attended by close relatives and members of the Zimbabwean journalism fraternity based in the United Kingdom, who paid their last respects to a man many described as a mentor, a friend, and an unwavering voice for truth.

Machipisa’s journey in journalism began at Harare Polytechnic’s School of Journalism in 1991. 

His natural curiosity and deep commitment to storytelling saw him rise quickly in the profession. He started his career as a correspondent for Inter Press Service (IPS) in Harare in 1993, where he gained recognition for his incisive reporting on human rights, governance, and social justice issues.

His work at IPS gave a voice to marginalized communities and held those in power accountable.

His talent soon caught the attention of the BBC World Service, and he joined their Zimbabwe bureau, where he reported on key political and economic developments during a time of increasing state restrictions on the media. 

His balanced and fearless reporting won him accolades and respect from colleagues and audiences alike.

In the early 2000s, as Zimbabwe’s political landscape became more hostile to independent journalists, Machipisa relocated to London, joining the ranks of many exiled Zimbabwean journalists. 

At the BBC World Service, he continued his passionate work, covering Southern African affairs with integrity and depth.

His ability to explain complex issues with clarity and nuance made him a trusted voice on Zimbabwean affairs.

Beyond his professional achievements, Machipisa was known for his kindness and humility. 

Colleagues and friends remember him as a generous mentor who was always willing to share his knowledge with younger journalists.

Despite his high-profile career, he remained down-to-earth, approachable, and deeply connected to the Zimbabwean diaspora community in the UK.

He often used his platform to support initiatives aimed at empowering Zimbabwean journalists and advocating for press freedom.

His passing leaves a significant void in the media fraternity, particularly among Zimbabwean journalists in exile, who looked up to him as a guiding figure. 

Rest in peace, Lewis Machipisa. Your voice may be gone, but your work and influence will endure.