By Munacho Gwamanada-In a profound display of unity and solidarity, Zimbabwean journalists based in the United Kingdom came together on Thursday to bid farewell to veteran journalist and long-serving BBC World Service correspondent Lewis Machipisa.
Machipisa, a respected figure in Zimbabwean journalism, passed away in his sleep at his home in Catford, Southeast London, on January 7, 2025. He was 52.
His funeral became more than just a moment of grief; it was a testament to the deep bonds that exist within the Zimbabwean media fraternity, particularly among those in the diaspora. Journalists, former colleagues, and close friends gathered alongside his family to honor a man widely regarded as a mentor, a friend, and an unwavering voice for truth.
Machipisa’s journey in journalism began in 1991 at the Harare Polytechnic’s School of Journalism.
His passion for storytelling and relentless pursuit of truth quickly propelled him into the field.
In 1993, he joined Inter Press Service (IPS) in Harare, where his incisive reporting on human rights, governance, and social justice set him apart.
His work amplified the voices of marginalized communities and held power to account, earning him recognition bothlocally and internationally.
It was this fearless dedication to journalism that led him to the BBC World Service, where he became a key figure in reporting on Zimbabwe’s political and economic developments during a time of increasing state restrictions on the media.
In the early 2000s, as Zimbabwe’s political climate became more repressive, Machipisa relocated to London, joining many exiled Zimbabwean journalists who continued to tell their country’s story from afar.
At the BBC, he remained committed to covering Southern African affairs with depth and integrity, his nuanced analyses making him a trusted voice on Zimbabwean issues.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Machipisa was deeply admired for his humility, generosity, and willingness to guide young journalists.
Despite his high-profile career, he remained approachable and grounded, always ready to support those around him.
He played an instrumental role in initiatives aimed at empowering Zimbabwean journalists and advocating for press freedom, ensuring that the next generation of reporters carried forward his legacy of fearless journalism.
His funeral reflected the resilience and fraternity of Zimbabwean journalists in exile.
The gathering of media professionals, many of whom had once shared newsrooms with him or been inspired by his work, underscored the enduring sense of community among Zimbabwean reporters, no matter where they are in the world.
Rest in peace, Lewis Machipisa. Though your voice is silenced, your legacy lives on.