South Africa’s journalism community has paid tribute to veteran political reporter Baldwin Ndaba following his death on 23 May 2026.Colleagues, editors, politicians and former newsroom peers remembered him as a fearless accountability journalist, trusted mentor and deeply humane individual whose work shaped South African political reporting for decades.The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) described Ndaba as a journalist committed to truth, public accountability and ethical reporting.

Ndaba began his career at the Diamond Fields Advertiser in Kimberley, where fellow journalists said he developed the resilience and investigative instincts that later defined his work.He later joined Independent Media and became a respected political reporter at The Star, covering the Gauteng legislature and provincial government.

Veteran journalist Jovial Rantao praised Ndaba’s ability to expose corruption and hold those in power accountable while remaining compassionate and grounded.Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said Ndaba’s reporting strengthened democracy by asking difficult questions and keeping citizens informed.Several colleagues also highlighted his dedication to mentoring younger reporters, especially interns entering court and political journalism.Friends and former co-workers recalled Ndaba’s humour, warmth and love for newsroom conversation.

Former Saturday Star editor Kashiefa Ajam remembered him as a central figure in the newsroom whose personality brought energy and laughter to colleagues.

Others spoke about his loyalty to the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), his multilingual abilities and his fearless investigative work, including exposing misuse of public funds by politicians.Ndaba’s memorial service will take place in Galeshewe, Kimberley, on 28 May, while his funeral service is scheduled for 30 May.

Tributes across the media industry described him as a journalist whose integrity, mentorship and reporting legacy will continue to influence South African journalism.