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Veteran photo journalist
Zvomuya dies

Herald Reporter
Award-winning veteran photojournalist, trainer and former Herald chief photographer Fidelis Zvomuya (63) who died at his Marondera farm this week was yesterday buried in Chanakira Village, Seke communal lands. Hundreds of people attended the burial, including photojournalists from various media houses.

Zvomuya’s widow Gladys narrated how she fared since Zvomuya’s retirement due to ill-health in 2003.
“He took care of everyone and we appreciate all forms of support given to us over the past 11 years,” Mrs Zvomuya said.

The deceased’s eldest son, Tichaona Tarwirei described Zvomuya as a unifier whose advice moulded the family.
“He was a kind and honest individual who offered all sorts of support. He supported us in school and other extra-curricular activities and we all excelled from the advice he gave us,” he said.

The Herald chief photographer Regis Nyandima, who worked with Zvomuya for a long time, said Zvomuya was a source of inspiration.
“The nation has been robbed of a trainer and photojournalist par excellence who nurtured many award-winning photographers.

“He taught many of bravery in the field which emanated from the experience he had as the first black photographers after the attainment of independence.

“We were insulted by white photographers instead of them offering to train us.
“They would boycott many assignments saying to us it is your Government and we cannot help you which motivated him to open a photographic school,” said Mr Nyandima.

Nyandima said the journalism fraternity would always cherish initiatives he brought and how he enjoyed citizen journalism.
Zvomuya joined Zimpapers in the 70’s and rose through the ranks to become The Herald’s first black chief photographer, taking over from Jack White.

He held the position until 2003 when he retired on medical grounds. He is survived by his widow Gladys, eight children and several grandchildren.