South Africa’s journalism fraternity is reeling from the devastating news of the passing of Tshidi Madia, the Associate Editor: Politics at Eyewitness News (EWN). She died on Wednesday morning, 27 August 2025, in hospital after a short illness, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped South African political reporting.
Primedia Broadcasting confirmed her passing with what it described as “gut-wrenching sadness.”
A Powerhouse in Political Journalism
EWN Editor-in-Chief, Nisa Allie, paid an emotional tribute, describing Tshidi as “the jewel in EWN’s crown.”
“She was a powerhouse. She was brave. She was the consummate professional, who worked tirelessly in pursuit of the truth. She led by example, mentoring and training many young political journalists. She constantly raised the bar for herself, juggling reporting and her editor responsibilities daily,” Allie said.
Allie highlighted her humility, warmth, and the laughter she brought into every newsroom she entered.
A Voice That Defined South Africa’s Political Landscape
Primedia Broadcasting’s Chief Content Officer, Mzo Jojwana, emphasised Tshidi’s ability to make sense of the country’s turbulent political landscape.
“Tshidi made sense of and guided us through the South African political narrative. She was respected across the political spectrum for asking tough questions with professionalism and empathy,” he said.
He added that her voice will be missed by millions of South Africans who relied on her reporting across EWN platforms, 702, Cape Talk, 947, KFM, websites, podcasts, and videos.
Primedia Group CEO Jonathan Procter also hailed Tshidi as “a force seldom encountered,” praising her unique style and ability to hold leaders accountable while building trust across the political divide.
Career and Impact
Born and raised in Johannesburg in a home filled with spirited political debate, Tshidi Madia’s passion for politics began early. After earning her communications degree with a focus on journalism and politics at the University of Johannesburg in 2008, she began her career at EWN’s traffic desk before moving on to Power FM and later News24.
Her return to EWN marked a turning point as she rose to Senior Political Reporter and eventually became Associate Editor: Politics.
She hosted the acclaimed podcast “Politricking with Tshidi Madia,” where she interviewed political heavyweights from across the spectrum.
Among her career highlights were:
- Securing a rare one-on-one interview with President Cyril Ramaphosa before the 2024 elections.
- Tenaciously pursuing and landing an interview with former President Jacob Zuma at Nkandla.
- Reporting live from the Oval Office in Washington, D.C., during the meeting between President Ramaphosa and U.S. President Donald Trump.
A Life of Courage and Compassion
Beyond journalism, Tshidi was remembered as a woman of loyalty, love, and resilience. Allie recalled a quote Tshidi had recently shared:
“In courage and poise, she boldly stands tall, her heart beats in rhythm, a powerful call. Amidst life’s harsh trials, her light shines so bright, a beacon of hope in the darkest of night.”
Her colleagues described her as a mentor, friend, and trailblazer who inspired younger journalists while fearlessly tackling those in power.
A Nation in Mourning
Tshidi’s passing leaves a deep void not only in Primedia Broadcasting but in South Africa’s entire journalism fraternity.
As tributes continue to pour in, her memory will live on in the stories she told, the truths she uncovered, and the journalists she mentored.
She is survived by her father, siblings, extended family, and colleagues who cherished her both personally and professionally.
South Africa has lost a fearless truth-teller, a voice of integrity, and a light in the nation’s democratic journey.
