Herald photographer Charakupa dies

Charakupa (48) died at Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare on Friday night after succumbing to serious injuries he sustained in a road accident two weeks ago.
The accident, which also claimed the life of Herald senior reporter Chakanetsa Chidyamatiyo, occurred at the 109km peg along the Harare-Mutare road after the Toyota Hilux vehicle they were travelling in crashed into a stationary freightliner.

Chidyamatiyo died on the spot while Charakupa sustained serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle escaped with minor injuries.
The crew was on its way back to Harare after covering an assignment in Rusape.
Herald editor William Chikoto described Charakupa as a loyal and experienced photographer who would be greatly missed.
He said the void he has left would be difficult to fill.

“It’s a great loss to us as The Herald, especially as it comes barely two weeks after Chaka’s (Chakanetsa’s) death,” he said.
“He was an experienced photographer and it’s not easy to replace such people.
“Charakupa was a man dedicated to duty and very loyal to the company. We will miss him greatly.” Herald chief photographer Regis Nyandima described him as an excellent photographer who wanted his captions to be straightforward.

“He liked sitting down with interns to guide them on the demands of the profession,” he said.
“It’s sad. He is the person who was supposed to take over from me as I am about to retire considering his wealth of experience.”
In a statement, Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (Zuj) first vice-president Michael Chideme said Charakupa was a towering figure.
He said his pictures spoke more than words.

“To his family, we say we are together with you in mourning,” he said.
“The union repeats its call to employers to ensure they give their news crews roadworthy vehicles. Journalists should also not accept to travel in unroadworthy vehicles. No story is worth dying for.”
A family spokesperson, Mrs Eunice Charakupa-Mazani, said Charakupa’s death was a great loss to the family.
“He displayed unconditional love. He did special things for everyone without expecting anything in return,” she said.
“He was a pillar of strength that united the entire family.”

Charakupa joined The Herald on August 22 1988 as a darkroom assistant. In 1990 he was promoted to junior photographer after which he rose to become senior photographer in 1992.
In 2007, he was appointed deputy chief photographer, a position he held until the time of his death.
He is survived by his wife, Sifiso, and three children.

Mourners are gathered at No. 33 Selsy Road, Waterfalls, Harare.
Burial arrangements will be announced in due course.

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