A Heartbreaking Goodbye: Masechaba Mposwa mourns death of trailblazing journo Promise Khumalo

It was a sorrowful weekend for media personality Masechaba Mposwa, who lost someone incredibly close to her heart: the late journalist and veteran freedom fighter, Promise Sibongile Imelda Khumalo.

Khumalo passed away peacefully on Friday, 21 November 2025, at her home, sparking an outpouring of condolences from across the country. Her legacy, marked by courage, inspiration, and a lifelong commitment to truth, has left an indelible mark on all who knew her and those touched by her work.

Goodbye Mama

Sharing her grief on Instagram, Masechaba poured out a deeply personal message, celebrating Khumalo’s life and the profound impact she had on hers.

Here’s how she expressed her heartbreak in her own words:

“My world shifted forever. My mother, Promise Sibongile Imelda Khumalo took her final breath at home. A warrior has rested. She was not only my mother — she was a soldier, a freedom fighter, a truth-teller, a revolutionary spirit carved by purpose.After bravely standing in the Soweto Uprising as a young student, she left South Africa at just 14 years old to receive military training through uMkhonto Wesizwe (the military wing of the ANC). Even as a child, she chose courage over fear and justice over silence,” wrote Masechaba.

Selfless warrior

Masechaba continued her tribute with these words:

“She gave her entire life to the liberation of South Africa. A trailblazing journalist. A pioneering broadcaster for Radio Freedom — the ANC’s underground radio station. A force of nature whose voice carried truth, conviction, and hope across borders.

Today, I honour the life of a woman who fought so we could be free, who lived with bravery, who loved fiercely, and who served her country with everything she had. Rest, Mama. Your legacy is carved into history. Your spirit lives in every heartbeat of this nation and in every breath I take,” wrote Masechaba.

ANC extends condolences on the loss of Khumalo

Offering their condolences, the ANC mourned the loss of Promise Khumalo in an official statement. Read their message below:

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