MASVINGO – The Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) community has been plunged into mourning following the sudden and tragic death of one of its campus radio producers and presenters, Tavita Natasha Mpala, who collapsed while on duty and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital on Friday, 17 October 2025.
The news of her passing has sent shockwaves through the university community and the media fraternity, where Mpala was regarded as a rising star known for her professionalism, passion, and infectious energy on air.
In an official statement released by the university’s communications office, GZU expressed its deepest sorrow over the loss, describing Mpala — popularly known by her radio name Natasha Mala — as a vibrant and dedicated media practitioner whose contribution to the institution’s broadcasting arm would be deeply missed.
“It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that, on behalf of Great Zimbabwe University, we announce the passing of our colleague, Tavita Natasha Mpala, the vibrant producer and presenter at GZU Campus Radio, who sadly passed on this afternoon,” read part of the university’s notice.
According to colleagues who were present at the time of the incident, Mpala had been conducting her regular shift at the GZU Campus Radio studios when she suddenly complained of feeling unwell. Moments later, she collapsed. Efforts to resuscitate her were immediately made by co-workers and campus health officials before she was rushed to a nearby hospital in Masvingo. Unfortunately, medical personnel pronounced her dead upon arrival.
The exact cause of death has not yet been determined, though university officials said they were working closely with health authorities and the Mpala family to establish the circumstances surrounding her untimely passing.
News of her death quickly spread across social media platforms, with friends, colleagues, and students sharing heartfelt tributes celebrating her life and work. Many described her as a passionate communicator who inspired others through her dedication and warmth.
Students who interacted with her at the university’s radio station said she had an exceptional ability to connect with her audience, often using her platform to highlight youth issues, campus events, and community development projects.
One student, who preferred to remain anonymous, said, “Natasha was full of life. She was always smiling, always encouraging us to pursue our goals. To think that she is gone just like that is devastating.”
The Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) also issued a condolence message, expressing deep sadness at the loss of a promising media personality. In a statement released on Saturday, ZUJ described Mpala as one of the country’s most talented and hardworking young broadcasters.
“The Zimbabwe Union of Journalists mourns the passing of one of the brightest talents in campus and community broadcasting, Ms. Tavita Natasha Mpala. She was a dedicated presenter whose professionalism, energy, and voice had already made her a household name among listeners in Masvingo and beyond. Her death is a huge loss to the journalism fraternity,” the statement read.
Great Zimbabwe University Mourns Sudden Death of Campus Radio Presenter, Mpala
Colleagues at GZU Campus Radio also took to social media to share their grief, remembering her as both a mentor and a friend. “We have lost a sister, a friend, and an inspiration. Natasha’s passion for storytelling and her positive spirit made her a pillar of our team,” one colleague wrote on Facebook.
GZU Vice Chancellor, Professor Rungano Zvobgo, is expected to visit the family to convey condolences on behalf of the university community. Plans are underway for the university to hold a memorial service in her honour, celebrating her contributions to student media and her role in shaping campus communication.
Mpala joined Great Zimbabwe University Campus Radio shortly after completing her media studies, quickly earning a reputation for her eloquence and professionalism. Her programmes, which covered education, lifestyle, and motivational content, were among the most popular on campus.
Her death comes as a painful blow not only to the GZU community but also to Zimbabwe’s broadcasting sector, which continues to nurture young voices driving innovation in the country’s media landscape.
Tributes have also poured in from alumni and media professionals across Zimbabwe who remembered Mpala for her ambition and humility. Many noted that she represented the promise of a new generation of broadcasters dedicated to community development and ethical journalism.
As the university and her family prepare for her burial, there is a growing call for institutions to prioritize regular health check-ups and mental wellness support for students and staff, particularly in demanding environments like broadcasting.
While her life was tragically cut short, colleagues say Natasha Mpala’s legacy will live on through the impact she made in her brief but remarkable career. Her voice — once a source of inspiration and joy — will continue to echo in the hearts of those who knew her, reminding everyone of the power of passion, kindness, and dedication to one’s calling.
Source- Bulawayo24
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