Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe Mass Media Trust (ZMMT) chairman, advocate Honour Mkushi on Tuesday described the late senior journalist of New Ziana, Hebert Mutugwi, as a ‘beacon of knowledge’ who used it selflessly to mentor upcoming journalists wherever he worked.

Mutugwi collapsed and died at work on Monday, aged 58.

He had been unwell a few weeks earlier, but had recovered and resumed work.

With a career spanning almost four decades, Mutugwi was one of a few veteran journalists still active in the profession, who was now using his presence in the newsroom to help young reporters to hone their skills.

After graduating from Harare Polytechnic with a Diploma in Mass Communication in 1997, he joined the Chronicle as a cadet reporter, and rose rapidly to the position of assistant news editor within five years.

In 1997, he was promoted to the position of news editor at Manica Post, a sister newspaper to the Chronicle in the Zimpapers Group.

Mutugwi later joined New Ziana in 2010, and edited several of its provincial newspapers, before being transferred to the national news agency, New Ziana, as a senior staffer.

In this position, which he held until his passing on, he also extensively mentored journalism student interns from various colleges and universities around the country.

In a statement, Mkushi said Mutugwi had left a rich professional legacy which will continue to inspire fellow journalists not only at New Ziana, but other media houses as well.

“Herbert Mutugwi was not just a journalist; he was a beacon of knowledge and a mentor to many. His contributions to journalism and dedication to nurturing the next generation will be remembered and cherished,” he said.

“Mutugwi’s legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him,” he added.

The ZMMT owns New Ziana, and also has controlling shareholding in the Zimpapers Group, as well as a 100 percent stake in Kingstons Holdings.

Mutugwi left behind a wife and children, and will be buried on Wednesday at his rural home in Chirumanzu, Midlands Province.

New Ziana