TRIBUTES continued to pour in yesterday as the journalism fraternity paid homage to top journalist Geoffrey Nyarota who succumbed to colon cancer on Saturday.
He was 74.
Nyarota’s illustrious career saw him editing The Manica Post, The Chronicle and was the founding editor-in-chief of The Daily News.
“Geoff was a pioneering investigative journalist who will be missed by family and friends,” Alpha Media Holding chairman Trevor Ncube said. Ncube was Nyarota’s deputy at the Financial Gazette.
In its condolence message, the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) said Nyarota was one of the most decorated journalists and editors.
ZUJ secretary-general Perfect Hlongwane said Nyarota left a legacy as a journalist, editor and author.
“Nyarota’s contribution, as editor at The Chronicle, as the founding editor of the Daily News, as chairperson of the Information Media Panel of Inquiry and as an author stands as testament to his dedication to the principles of journalism and his unwavering commitment to informing the public and growth of the sector,” Hlongwane said.
“His work exemplified the power of journalism to shape narratives and hold power to account. His passing on is a significant loss, not only for those who had the privilege of working alongside him but for all who value the vital role of a free and vibrant Press,” he said.
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Veteran journalist Brian Mangwende said Nyarota was a beacon, pillar and mentor to many journalists in Zimbabwe.
“He was a champion of media freedom and a force to reckon with within the fraternity. We have lost an icon and we will forever cherish his contribution towards Press freedom and relentless efforts for a free Press across the globe,” he said.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services secretary Ndavaningi Mangwana said Nyarota would be remembered for his pioneering work in investigative journalism.
“Saddened by the loss of Zimbabwean media giant Geoff Nyarota. As a pioneering editor, he left an indelible mark on the country’s journalism landscape. His contribution to investigative journalism and robust public discourse will be remembered,” he said.
Nyarota is survived by 3 sons and 13 grandchildren.
Family spokesperson Donald Nyarota said they had “lost a pillar of the family”.
“We are poorer without him and as a family, we will miss him,” he said.
“We have done all the paperwork and the body will lie in state at his home in Nyarota village in Nyazura under Chief Makoni. He will be buried on Tuesday.”
Nyarota published several books, including Against The Grain, Memoirs of Zimbabwean Newsman published in 2006 and The Honourable Minister.
He exposed corruption in the Willowgate scandal in 1989 while editing The Chronicle and pioneered investigative journalism in Zimbabwe.
