by Gideon Madzikatidze/Simbarashe Sithole
HARARE – James ‘Protest Lens’ Jemwa, a multi-talented videographer, cameraperson, film-maker and human rights journalist who was well known for capturing the pulse of people and his several encounters, (which he shared amongst us during social interaction with him at drinking spots), with ruling ZANU-PF party torture gangsters during protests has died.
He is said to have been fatally knocked by a vehicle in Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare last night.
When contacted for a comment, Zimbabwe Republic Police’s national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that they received news about the unfortunate incident but will give and update full details on their official X (formerly Twitter) handle.
“Yes, I confirm about receiving information on the passing on of Journalist, James Jemwa. I would kindly request your patience in allowing us to post about it on our official X handle where we will post more details,” Nyathi said.
The late seasoned Zimbabwean journalist, cameraman, and videographer, has had a distinguished career marked by dedication and resilience. Throughout his work, Jemwa has faced numerous challenges, including assaults and imprisonment, while reporting on peaceful demonstrations and human rights issues in Zimbabwe.
With his fearless character and commitment to expose existing social, economic and political disequilibriums, the late Jemwa covered sensitive topical events. Jemwa’s passion for highlighting human rights abuses and promoting democracy in Zimbabwe has led him to cover sensitive topics, often putting him at odds with authorities, especially ZANU-PF.
He was assaulted and imprisoned while covering some protests and political rallies, and once lost some valuables after incessant torture by Zanu-Pf gangsters at the party’s headquarters basement, an incident he always shared with us when we meet for routine drinks at spots near the Zanu-Pf Headquarters.
Whenever we met and before he took a sip (beer), Jemwa would point his middle finger pointing at Zanu-Pf headquarters claiming that it was a crime scene and he would never forgive them for torturing him at the basement and confiscate his dearly expensive camera carrying exclusive video footages. Upon quizzing him on why he couldn’t forgive them since the camera has been replaced, Jemwa emotionally claimed that nothing will compensate his service and sacrifice.
In 2016, Jemwa was beaten up by thugs allegedly controlled by ZANU-PF, under the late President Mugabe’s ruling party, while covering a demonstration. He was later arrested and spent a week in detention on public violence charges.
In 2020 and 2022, Jemwa’s cameras were confiscated or destroyed while he was covering protests and rallies, impacting his ability to work, an incident he always vividly remember whenever he set his foot at any of our favourite drinking places near ZANU PF.
Fortunately, Jemwa received support from the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zimbabwe, which provided him with a new camera to help him continue his work.
Despite the risks and challenges, Jemwa remained committed to his craft, driven by his dream of a peaceful and better Zimbabwe where freedom of speech and expression is recognised.
He leaves behind a strong legacy as his work has contributed to relief efforts and human rights initiatives, shedding light on critical issues in Zimbabwe and beyond.
The experiences of James Jemwa highlight the importance of press freedom and the need for journalists to be protected while doing their work. His resilience and dedication to his craft serve as an inspiration to fellow journalists and human rights advocates.