Veteran Journalist
By Mpho Moloi
Geoffrey Nyarota, the esteemed Zimbabwean journalist renowned for his investigative reporting, notably the exposure of the Willowgate scandal, has died at the age of 74 in Harare after a battle with colon cancer.
Early Life and Career
Born in 1951 in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), Nyarota initially trained as a teacher before transitioning to journalism in 1978 when he joined The Rhodesia Herald as a trainee. 
Willowgate Scandal
As editor of The Chronicle in 1989, Nyarota uncovered the Willowgate scandal, revealing that government officials were purchasing vehicles at discounted prices from Willowvale Motor Industries and reselling them for substantial profits. This exposé led to the resignation of five cabinet ministers but also resulted in Nyarota’s removal from his editorial position.  
Founding of The Daily News
In 1999, Nyarota founded The Daily News, an independent newspaper that quickly became Zimbabwe’s most widely read daily. The publication faced significant challenges, including bombings of its offices and printing press, allegedly by state security forces. Nyarota was arrested multiple times and reportedly targeted for assassination due to the paper’s critical stance against the government. 
Accolades and Exile
Nyarota’s commitment to press freedom earned him international recognition, including the Committee to Protect Journalists’ International Press Freedom Award (2001), the World Association of Newspapers’ Golden Pen of Freedom Award (2002), and UNESCO’s Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize (2002). Following escalating threats, he left Zimbabwe in 2003, accepting a fellowship at Harvard University and later teaching at Bard College. 
Return to Zimbabwe and Legacy
After years abroad, Nyarota returned to Zimbabwe, where he continued to influence journalism and politics. He is survived by his wife, Ursula, and their three children. 
Nyarota’s career is a testament to the power of investigative journalism in challenging corruption and advocating for transparency. His unwavering dedication to truth and accountability leaves an enduring legacy in Zimbabwean media and beyond.
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