15/12/2025
Veteran Broadcaster Kenneth Maduma Passes Away, Leaving Legacy of Integrity and Excellence
The Zambian media fraternity is in mourning following the passing of veteran broadcaster and iconic journalist, Mr. Kenneth Maduma, whose distinguished career and profound influence spanned decades.
The Media Liaison Committee (MLC) confirmed the sad news in a statement issued by its Chairperson, Mr. Henry Kabwe, on December 15, 2025.
Mr. Maduma was a towering figure in Zambian broadcasting, best known for his tenures at the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) and later, Radio Phoenix.
His deep baritone voice and serious demeanour became synonymous with substantive journalism, as he engaged presidents and ministers across multiple administrations—from UNIP and MMD to the PF government.
“Mr. Maduma’s probing interview style and masterful news-reading made him a familiar and trusted voice in households across Zambia,” the MLC statement read. “Even today, his voice remains the signature tune for the ‘One Zambia, One Nation’ slogan heard on national broadcasts.”
Kabwe notes that after retiring from ZNBC, Maduma continued to shape public discourse as one of the pioneering presenters of Radio Phoenix’s influential programme, Let the People Talk.
Beyond the studio, he served the nation as a Human Rights Commissioner and later as Deputy High Commissioner to Egypt, before retiring to his farm in Chibombo.
Kabwe addds that in the newsroom, Maduma wull be remembered not only for his professionalism but for his humility and dedication to mentoring young journalists.
“He generously shared his expertise with upcoming journalists, guiding them toward professionalism, ethics, and excellence in broadcasting,” Kabwe noted.
Reflecting on Mr. Maduma’s immense contribution, fellow broadcaster John Chola, who has together with Mr Maduma presented programmes such as Face the Media and Let the People Talk, emphasised the enduring relevance of his example.
“Mr. Maduma was a pillar of our profession,” stated Mr. Chola. “For practicing broadcasters of today and tomorrow, his life is a clarion call to emulate his unwavering commitment to professionalism, ethical rigor, deeply researched work, and flawless ex*****on. That is the standard he set, and that is the legacy we must strive to uphold.”
The MLC celebrated Mr. Maduma as a journalist who “embodied integrity, depth, and excellence,” whose legacy “sets a standard for all media practitioners.”
Condolences have been extended to his wife, children, and the entire family.
Hamba Kahle, Baba Maduma. Rest in Peace.
