23 Apr 2025

The deceased journalist for Mmegi and The Monitor newspapers, Mr Lebogang Mosikare, who was based in Francistown, will be buried on Saturday at the town’s Gerald Estate Cemetery.

The late Mosikare died on April 16  at Nyangabgwe Referral Hospital after a brief illness. He was aged 42.

A memorial service will be held to honour him on Friday at the Francistown Civic Centre. The memorial service, organised by media colleagues in conjunction with MISA Botswana, is expected to pay tribute to his significant contributions to the profession.

Mosikare was a versatile and dedicated journalist, covering a wide range of topics, including courts, sports, and general news. He was particularly known for his meticulous court reporting, often cited for its accuracy and adherence to journalistic ethics.

His commitment to accuracy extended to avoiding the pitfalls of rushing stories or committing errors, and he frequently cautioned colleagues against the dangers of defamation in the pursuit of “scoops”. Mosikare’s meticulous approach was renowned, earning him considerable respect among his peers.

“To avoid contempt of court, don’t write what you have not heard,” was a frequent piece of advice offered by Mosikare to colleagues. 

In addition to his court reporting, Mosikare was passionate about exploring new beats. Recently, he had begun covering sports, having observed the coverage of Chakalisa Dube, who had transitioned to a position in one of the government ministries.

Mosikare’s colleagues recall him as an engaging conversationalist, readily discussing topical issues, including media freedom, politics, corruption, and biased in reporting.

The Voice‘s reporter, Ms Christinah Mothabane said Mosikare’s interactions often fostered lively discussions, concluding with a measured, respectful exchange of views.

“The media has lost a good journalist who was the creme de la creme of journalism. He was a scribe of note dedicated to his profession. No one will ever fit or replace his love and style of writing,” said Ms Mothabane.

“He would never go to court without a pen and notebook. Never. He was passionate and dedicated to his work” she added.

She described her late friend as a firm believer in continuous learning as he constantly encouraged other journalists to read, especially international news.

“He said staying updated broadened perspectives and improved one’s writing.  He particularly emphasised the importance of court reporters familiarising themselves with legal jargon, ensuring accuracy and clarity in their reporting,” she said.

Ms Mothabane also said the late Mosikare was incredibly proud of his writing skills. She explained that the late Mosikare used to say, with a twinkle in his eye, that after he filed a story, no editor ever needed to touch it. 

“He was that good,” she explained.   When it comes to work, he was very strict to meet deadlines. She explained that Mosikare was a super calm soul when it comes to work but at the same time joyful.

Sunday Standard/Telegraph journalist, Mr Obusitswe Kologwe said he met the late Mosikare for the first time during their school days in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, in 2002.

“He was at the University of Port Elizabeth and I was studying at Port Elizabeth Technikon before the two institutions merged to become Nelson Mandela University,” said Kologwe.

He said Mosikare was a very brilliant scholar as a Media Studies student and a debater, who was well-informed in current affairs. He said as a journalist, Mosikare was one of the best writers he ever knew and had a deep passion for court reporting and politics.

“He always reminded us to verify our facts before writing our articles, or we would find ourselves in a court of law,” Mr Kolokwe said. 

On the other hand, Mr Kologwe explained that the late Mosikare was very social, humble and down to earth.

“He was an avid reader, and a fearless journalist who always stood for what he believed in,” he stated.

Born in Matsiloje, the late Mosikare attended Matsiloje Primary School, Setlalekgosi Junior Secondary School, and Francistown Senior Secondary School before pursuing a degree in Mass Communications and Culture at the University of Port Elizabeth (now Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University). ENDS