A memorial lecture was held in honour of veteran journalist Khaba Mkhize, celebrating his life and legacy. Mkhize served as an assistant editor at The Witness and as editor of Echo Newspapers, now known as Echo Eyethu. The lecture highlighted his contribution to journalism, his role in giving communities a voice, and his role in the struggle for freedom and democracy.
Dr Lakela Kaunda delivered the keynote address, reflecting on how Mkhize used journalism to tell people's stories and find solutions to the challenges they faced. Kaunda described Mkhize as the heartbeat of the newspaper, using it as a tool to advance lives. She recalled how Mkhize would work to find solutions for people who came to the 'advice office' he set up, and how he was a never desk-bound journalist.
Kaunda also highlighted Mkhize's role in giving the people of Pietermaritzburg a voice during a period of political and social change. She mentioned how he established a poetry page, which became popular at the time and reflected the mood of the people. Kaunda left The Witness in the 90's, but remembered it as a place that made her feel like home, thanks to Mkhize's guidance.
Riquadeu Jacobs, CEO of Capital Newspapers and The Witness, paid tribute to Mkhize, recalling how he had helped shape his career. Jacobs described Mkhize as a mentor and friend whose contribution had helped shape the company's history. He mentioned how Mkhize played an instrumental role in developing Public Eye and establishing Eyethu, which became KwaZulu-Natal's largest-circulating isiZulu community newspaper.
Dr Zweli Mkhize also paid tribute to the veteran journalist, describing him as a man who believed deeply in peace and reconciliation. Zweli recalled how Mkhize was always supportive and used humour to address serious matters. He remembered Mkhize's influence extending well beyond the newsroom.
Other tributes were paid to Mkhize by retired teacher Jay Jugwanth, who remembered him for his integrity, respect for the written word, and willingness to listen to others. Annette Makhanya, a friend of Mkhize's, recalled meeting him in the late 1950s and described him as a calm and compassionate man who worked alongside people from different backgrounds.
The tributes also offered a glimpse into Mkhize's life away from journalism. His daughter, Nobuntu Mkhize, remembered her father for his joyous spirit and the laughter he shared with his family. A relative, Dr Mandla Mkhize, said the organisation Ubumbano Lwabambo had decided to host the memorial lecture to celebrate Mkhize's life and recognise the difference he had made in the lives of South Africans.
Key points
- Khaba Mkhize was remembered for his commitment to community journalism and his role in giving communities a voice.
- Mkhize played an instrumental role in developing Public Eye and establishing Eyethu, which became KwaZulu-Natal's largest-circulating isiZulu community newspaper.
- The memorial lecture was held to celebrate Mkhize's life and legacy, highlighting his contribution to journalism and his role in the struggle for freedom and democracy.
