Veteran political reporter remembered for fearless investigative journalism and unwavering commitment to accountability
The South African media industry is mourning the passing of veteran Independent Media journalist Baldwin Ndaba, whose fearless reporting and commitment to accountability journalism helped shape democratic South Africa.
The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) paid tribute to Ndaba following his untimely passing on Friday, describing him as one of the country’s finest journalists whose work consistently held those in power accountable.
Ndaba, renowned for his incisive political reporting and deep understanding of South Africa’s political landscape, built a distinguished journalism career that spanned provincial reporting, investigative journalism, and political analysis.
A Journalist Forged in Kimberley’s Newsrooms
Veteran journalist Jovial Rantao described Ndaba as a “brilliant cut rough stone,” reflecting on how his journalism career began at the Diamond Fields Advertiser (DFA) in Kimberley.
According to Rantao, the DFA newsroom shaped Ndaba into a fearless investigative journalist through the demanding environment of provincial reporting and hard-hitting investigative work.
From those early beginnings, Ndaba quickly established himself as a formidable journalist with a rare balance of courage, humility and professionalism.
His exceptional talent later earned him a position at The Star newspaper, one of South Africa’s most respected news publications, where he became widely known for exposing corruption and uncovering political scandals within the Gauteng provincial government and legislature.
Fearless Political Reporting
Throughout his career, Baldwin Ndaba became respected for his fearless reporting style and commitment to public accountability journalism.
Rantao said Ndaba’s journalism embodied the true mission of the profession — holding the powerful accountable while giving a voice to ordinary citizens affected by corruption and injustice.
“His work will endure as incorruptible and indelible,” Rantao said.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi also paid tribute to Ndaba, calling him one of South Africa’s most influential political journalists and a gifted writer whose reporting strengthened democratic accountability.
“Baldwin’s work played an important role in keeping the public informed and holding government accountable, a responsibility that remains essential in strengthening democracy,” said Lesufi.
The premier added that Ndaba earned widespread respect among politicians, journalists and readers for his professionalism, integrity and dedication to truth.
Deep Political Understanding and Love for the PAC
Founder of Vutivi Business News, Moipone Malefane, remembered Ndaba as a journalist with a deep understanding of politics and South African history.
She noted that despite changing political trends, Ndaba remained loyal to the ideals of the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), often engaging in political debates and intellectual discussions with colleagues.
“When everyone was ANC, he continued to defend the PAC. He loved the PAC and what it stands for,” she said.
A Mentor and Respected Colleague
Beyond his front-page exclusives and investigative scoops, colleagues described Ndaba as a calm, humble and deeply respected newsroom figure.
Journalist Simon Nare described him as “a gentle and peaceful soul” who remained calm and respectful even during disagreements.
Many younger journalists also benefited from his mentorship, with colleagues praising his patience, generosity and willingness to guide aspiring reporters.
Veteran journalist Themba Sepotokele recalled working alongside Ndaba at The Star during the early 2000s, where he became known for breaking major political stories and exposing corruption within government structures.
One of Ndaba’s notable investigations involved former Gauteng MEC Humphrey Mmemezi, who was accused of misusing a government credit card for personal expenses.
Remembered for Humanity and Humility
Long-time friend and journalist Steve Lawrence said he was heartbroken by Ndaba’s passing, remembering their early newsroom days together at the DFA.
Lawrence described Ndaba as a humble and compassionate journalist who excelled in crime and political reporting while maintaining strong relationships with communities and sources.
He also fondly recalled Ndaba’s love for township delicacies and the countless conversations they shared covering stories across the Northern Cape and Gauteng.
“You were loved by all who got to know you and hated by some politicians for exposing them,” Lawrence wrote in a tribute shared on social media.
Journalism as Public Service
SANEF said Baldwin Ndaba belonged to a generation of journalists who viewed journalism not merely as a profession but as a public trust.
The organisation praised his courage, integrity, mentorship and unwavering dedication to ethical journalism.
“Baldwin Ndaba pursued stories with courage, defended his principles without apology, mentored generously, and carried himself with humility and dignity,” SANEF said.
The organisation extended condolences to Ndaba’s family, friends, former colleagues and the broader South African media fraternity.
