SANEF Mourns the Passing of Revered Journalist, Tshidi Madia
27 August 2025
The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of renowned journalist, Tshidi Madia. Her sudden death is a profound loss to the media fraternity and to South Africa as a whole.
Tshidi, who served as Eyewitness News’ (EWN) Associate Editor for Politics, was a formidable and respected voice in the country’s political landscape. She was known for her insightful analysis and meticulous reporting, and she had a rare talent for engaging with politicians from across the political spectrum.
Tshidi commanded the respect of all political parties and political players. At the same time, she continued to hold them to account with professionalism and integrity. Breaking stories was part of Tshidi’s DNA.
Beyond her role as a journalist, Tshidi was a mentor and inspiration to many young journalists, particularly women journalists. She was loved by her colleagues and endeared herself to the broader South African public.
She led by example and always demonstrated a commitment to ethical journalism and upholding the highest standards. Her popular podcast, “Politricking with Tshidi Madia,” showcased her ability to connect with her subjects and the public, but also her deep political knowledge and insight. For thousands of her followers, the podcast was appointment-viewing.
SANEF extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues at Eyewitness News and Primedia.
Her passing is not only a loss for the journalism fraternity but also a loss for South Africa.
Her legacy as a courageous, ethical, and dedicated journalist will continue to inspire generations to come. May her beautiful soul rest in peace.
Note to Editors:
The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) is a non-profit organisation whose members are editors, senior journalists, and journalism trainers from all areas of South African media. We are committed to championing South Africa’s hard-won freedom of expression and promoting quality, ethics, and diversity in the South African media. We promote excellence in journalism by fighting for media freedom, writing policy submissions, research, and education and training programmes. SANEF is not a union.
For more information, please contact:
Makhudu Sefara – Chairperson (079) 177-2134
Tshamano Makhadi – Deputy Chairperson (082) 223-0621
Glenda Daniels – Secretary-General (083) 229-9708
Sbu Ngalwa – Treasurer-General (073) 404-1415
Sli Khanyile – Media Freedom Chair (083) 471-0367
Katy Katopodis – Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022
Judy Sandison – KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334
Dianne Hawker – Gauteng Convenor (072) 016-5984
Rochelle De Kock – Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028
Sisanda Nkoala – Western Cape Convenor (073) 138 5564
Reggy Moalusi – Executive Director (071) 682-3695
Twitter: @SAEditorsForum
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.SANEF.org.za
