Picture: The late veteran journalist, Baldwin Ndaba/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
25 May 2026 – The National Press Club (NPC) has extended its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of journalist Baldwin Ndaba, who passed away on 22 May 2026. Until recently, Baldwin Ndaba worked as a journalist for various Independent Newspapers titles such as the Diamond Field Advertiser, The Star, Sunday Independent and the Saturday Star.
The NPC Chair Antoinette Slabbert said a son of Galeshewe Township, in Kimberley, the town that gave South Africa journalist and editor Aggrey Klaaste, Ndaba leaves behind a proven and impeccable legacy of chronicling the socio-political narratives that shaped post-1994 South Africa, marked by depth, integrity and an unwavering commitment to truth. Slabbert said with nearly three decades in the craft of journalism, Ndaba covered stories that exposed crime and corruption while also using the power of the pen to celebrate the milestones of South Africa’s democracy.
“He understood the assignment and told the nation’s stories without any fear or favour. Ndaba was a consummate and unassuming journalist who understood that for democracy to flourish, it requires a vigilant fourth estate with an appreciation of the country’s history. He loved his country and understood the responsibility we all share in building modern-day South Africa,” she said.
Slabbert further said Ndaba will be buried this Saturday in his hometown with a planned memorial service sometime this week. She added that the NPC also recognises and celebrates the life of journalist and cultural pioneer Maria McCloy, who passed away recently.
“She was recently honoured by the arts and culture community, as well as broader sectors of society, for her role in shaping South Africa’s arts and culture landscape in the post-1994 era.
“Both Ndaba and McCloy arrived in the media world when our democracy was in its embryonic state and led in telling the stories that shaped our society and the challenges that bedevilled our march into a democratic country,” said Slabbert.
She said they both left an indelible mark that will continue to inspire and propel the industry to the greater heights.
The Guardian 