The management of Moretele TImes paid tribute to the fallen Chairperson of the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP), MR Wandile Wara Fana (45).
This follows Mr Fana succumbing to the deadly COVID-19 yesterday, leaving the community media at large, of which Moretele Times is part, deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Fana.
Mr Fana was a Founder and editor of the Skawara newspaper for the past 10 years, on his time of passing he was the chairman of the AIP board.
Managing Member of Moretele Times, Ms Boipelo Mushi, said although we worked with Mr Fana for a short period, we feel that the industry has lost a servant leader who was dedicated to the development of community media in the country.
“Mr Fana was a humble giant and a straight talker who was an activist for the advancement of community media, he will be sorely missed,” she said.
“Board Member, Ms Nontando Mokoena, said “Wara left us Friday afternoon after he battled with Covid-19. He was a seasoned journalist and interacted closely with many of the current generations of local reporters. As editor of his paper, he provided guidance to dozens of publishers across the country, young and old.”
Another AIP board member, Mr Dumisani Ntsanwisi, said Mr Fana was highly respected for his knowledge and work ethic.
Mr Patrick Rudolph, former Western Cape AIP Board Member said, “Wara’s death is terrible news which has left us deeply saddened. South Africa has lost a determined community media fighter and I have lost a fierce and compassionate friend. I hope his legacy will serve as an inspiration.”
MR Fana is survived by his wife and two children.
