Rare Photo of Joseph Madhimba Before Stroke Emerges as ZBC Icon to Be Buried in Windhoek
A rare photo of late Zimbabwean news anchor and academic Joseph Madhimba, taken before he suffered a debilitating stroke in Namibia, has surfaced online—bringing fresh reflection on his life and legacy.
Madhimba passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, 21 May, in Okahandja, a small town about 60 kilometres from Namibia’s capital, Windhoek. He had been battling poor health since suffering a stroke in 2024, which later led to heart failure. He spent much of the past year in hospital.
Rare Photo of Joseph Madhimba Before Stroke Emerges
Veteran journalist Ranga Mataire shared the photo of Madhimba before his health took a turn. In the caption, he confirmed that the broadcaster will be laid to rest in Windhoek. He captioned the photo:
“This is Joseph Madhimba before he stroked. The veteran broadcaster died recently in Namibia. Family members said he will be buried in Windhoek, the city that had become his second home.”
See the picture below:
This is Joseph Madhimba before he stroked. The veteran broadcaster died recently in Namibi. Family members said he will be buried in Windhoek, the city that had become his second home. pic.twitter.com/kbqCaic0e2
— Ranga Mataire (@rangamataire) May 22, 2025
Remembering a Broadcasting Icon
Joseph Madhimba was widely respected as one of Zimbabwe’s most professional and charismatic newsreaders, especially during the prime years of the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC)—a time many still remember as the golden age of local journalism.
He joined ZBC shortly after Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980. He brought with him global experience from France, having trained in journalism in Montpellier and worked at Agence France-Presse (AFP). Starting off as a sub-editor, Madhimba quickly rose through the ranks to become a household name on national television. He thrived under the leadership of the late Claude Mararike, who was then head of news.
During his time at ZBC, Madhimba worked alongside some of the biggest names in Zimbabwean broadcasting, including Grey Tichatonga, John Gambanga, Busi Chindove, Isidore Gwashure, Robin Shava, Everisto Mwatse, Themba Hove, Caleb Thondhlana, Patrick Nyamhunga, Dorcas Munyoro, Praexedes Dzingare, Themba Bassopo-Moyo, Noreen Welch, and Alice Chavunduka.
A New Chapter in Namibia
After leaving ZBC, Madhimba relocated to Namibia, where he transitioned into academia. He lectured at the Polytechnic of Namibia and also worked in the financial sector. Even in his later years, he remained active in intellectual circles until illness struck in early 2024.
Joseph Madhimba’s contribution to Zimbabwean media and education remains indelible, and tributes continue to pour in as friends, colleagues, and former students remember a man who dedicated his life to storytelling, teaching, and truth.
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The post Rare Photo of Joseph Madhimba Before Stroke Emerges as ZBC Icon to Be Buried in Windhoek appeared first on iHarare News.
