Sad loss for Lim media fraternity

THE late Sowetan photojournalist, Elijar Mushiana will be buried at the family cemetery in Tshimbupfe, on Saturday.

Mushiana (41), who was from Tshimbupfe village, died on Sunday morning at Mediclinic Limpopo, where he was a patient for almost two months.

His illness started on the evening of May 31 shortly after the cleansing ceremony of his father, who died last year.

Elijar was rushed to the Tshilidzini Hospital and later transferred to Mediclinic Limpopo.

He freelanced for the Limpopo Mirror and Sowetan from 2000 until 2006. He also freelanced for Capricorn Voice in 2006. He won several awards during his time as a freelance journalist.

Sowetan made his employment as a photojournalist permanent in 2007.

Sowetan Limpopo bureau chief, Frank Maponya, said they were heartbroken by Elijar’s death. He said Sowetan employees would be with his family in prayer and trusted God would give them strength to deal with the loss.

“He was more family than a colleague. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.

The group editor of Northern Media Group, Joline Nash, said the newspaper industry had lost a journalist who not only gave the man on the street a voice, but also bridged the boundaries between rich and poor with his stories and photos.

“To his colleagues, friends and family, our heartfelt condolences,” she said.

Limpopo Mirror news editor, Wikus Lee, said they were devastated and extremely shocked by Elijar’s death.

He said Elijar was a dedicated photographer with a wonderful personality.

“He would phone just to greet me. He was a very friendly guy and we mourn with his family. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.

Limpopo premier Stanley Mathabatha conveyed his heartfelt condolences.

Mathabatha said Mushiana was a special journalist who would follow all events in the province and capture them through his lense.

Spokesperson for the ANC in Limpopo, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said the ANC had learnt of Elijar’s passing with sadness.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues at the Sowetan and the entire media fraternity and his friends.

“We shall remember him for his commitment and dedication to his work. He was among a few who rose from the community print media space to excel in the mainstream print media.

“Even in death, his story must inspire other young people of Limpopo, who aspire to pursue a career in the media, that success is possible with perseverance and dedication,” she said.

Vhembe Media Forum advisor, Wilson Dzebu, said they were saddened by Elijar’s sudden departure.

“His contributions to the development of journalism in Vhembe will live on to be seen by all. We knew he was sick, but we thought he would recover and come back and continue his work.

“His unmatched photographic skills will continue to guide young photojournalists to pick up the spear where he has left,” he said.

“Among his memorable contributions, he helped establish the Vhembe Media Forum and served as chairperson for two years.

“He founded the Northern Press Association and was a director before he joined the Sowetan.

“He taught photographic skills to local young journalists free of charge. He strived for unity among the media fraternity until his last day on earth.

“He organised countless workshops and award ceremonies to motivate young journalists. May his soul rest in peace.”

Elijar’s sister, Veli Mushiana told CV that the family would remember him for his kind heart and willingness to help. She said Elijar would provide food to any family member who was in need.

Elijar leaves his mother, Selinah, two sisters, Veli and Mashudu, and his brother, Joshua behind.

His memorial service will be held tomorrow (Thursday) at 12:00 at the Vuwani Faith Mission Church near Elijar’s home. The funeral service will be held at Faith Mission Church on Saturday morning before proceeding to the family graveyard in Tshimbupfe village.