By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
7 November 2024- The South African National Editors Forum (SANEF) said Lucky Morajane worked for the Daily Sun for several years. SANEF Chairperson, Nwabisa Makunga said Morajane left the newspaper a few years back.
Daily Sun editor Amos Mananyetso said Malaczen, as Morajane was affectionately known, was just more than a colleague. Manayetso further said that they talked about anything and everything related to life and its challenges.
“He was one of the most talented photographers I have ever known, humorous too. He had an eye for a news picture and never argued much. A lot of young reporters learned a lot from him as he was a good teacher.
“Morajane was one of Daily Sun’s greatest ambassadors because he knew our purpose. He knew the Daily Sun story and the readers and the Sun People were close to his big heart. Away from work, Morajane was a father, who loved his two daughters with everything he had,” he said.
A veteran photographer, Siphiwe Mhlambi said: “Morajane knew what he was doing. He was always searching for knowledge and someone who admired the older generation. We are all shocked to learn of his passing. He was a gentle giant and soul and I always made time for him.
“Whenever we met at gigs, we always had time for quick chats. Morajane is too young to die and he never stopped talking about his two little girls. The news of his passing is saddening. Morajane was bright and understood the news industry is not for sissies, especially when you are a freelancer as you are also searching for knowledge and upskilling. He was never shy to ask.”
Former Daily Sun news editor Nahima Ahmed said Morajane was a true all-rounder in both photography and videography. Ahmed further said from breaking news and political briefings to football matches and entertainment events, he excelled in every aspect of visual storytelling, capturing each moment with remarkable skill and precision.
“I had the privilege of working alongside him for nearly two decades, witnessing his dedication and talent first-hand, which earned him my utmost respect and admiration. He was more than just an artist.
“Morajane was a generous mentor. He guided young photographers and videographers with the same care he extended to the late Chris Moagi, leaving a legacy that shaped many careers,” she added.
Ahmed said Morajane’s sense of humour was unforgettable and he insisted we call him “Dr Morajane” in the newsroom- a name that many of them happily used. She said her heart goes out to his daughters and family, who have lost an extraordinary father, friend and mentor.
“His influence and spirit have left an indelible mark on us all. My deepest condolences to his family,” said Ahmed.
Meanwhile, former colleague and photographer, Robert Tlapu shared the same sentiments. Tlapu said “Dr Morajane” as he used to address himself, was one of the easy-going ex-colleagues he had shared a working space with.
“He was very polite, but sometimes very impatient, especially if he was assigned to do a job he did not like. Morajane loved his job, but sometimes, he preferred to sit back and relax in his office like a Dr he was.
“You will miss the “Doctor of Photography”. Rest easy Lucky Morajane,” he said.
The Guardian 