Respected former Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) news anchor and academic Joseph Madhimba has passed away in Namibia. He died in the early hours in Okahandja, near Windhoek, after a year-long battle with ill health following a stroke, which ultimately led to heart failure.

Madhimba rose to prominence during ZBC’s golden era, earning a reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s finest news readers. He joined the national broadcaster shortly after the country’s independence in 1980, bringing with him international experience from his studies and work with Agence France-Presse (AFP) in France. Starting as a sub-editor, he quickly advanced to become a well-known anchor under the leadership of Claude Mararike.

Throughout his ZBC career, Madhimba worked with a notable roster of broadcasters, including Grey Tichatonga, John Gambanga, and Alice Chavunduka, among others. He eventually left the station amid increasing political interference, reflecting a broader trend of media professionals departing in protest over the loss of editorial independence.

After relocating to Namibia, Madhimba became a lecturer at the Polytechnic of Namibia and later worked in the financial sector. He remained active in academia until his health declined in early 2024. Tributes have poured in from former colleagues and students, who remember him as a dignified and professional figure whose contributions left a lasting impact on Zimbabwean journalism.