Hundreds pay last respects to fallen journalist

 Hundreds of Dar es Salaam residents turned out yesterday to pay their last respects to Rose Athumani, a journalist who was working for Daily News.

Ms Athumani, 41, passed away on November 8 at the Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) where she was receiving treatment.

The requiem mass for the journalist, who once worked for The Citizen, was held at the Muhimbili chapel before her body was transported to Uchira village in Moshi Rural, Kilimanjaro region for burial. She will be laid to rest today.

Speaking at the service, the Tanzania Standard Newspapers (TSN) Ltd managing editor, Dr Jim Yonazi said the company has lost a charming and hardworking journalist.

Dr Yonazi also acknowledged support from members of different media houses who showed up since the deceased was admitted at the national facility.

“It is my belief that this cooperation will go further not only in difficulties but also in happy moments,” said the TSN chief.

For his part, Daily News acting editor Leonard Mwakalebela said the demise of Ms Athumani was a big blow for the company, stressing that they have lost a hardworking writer who was committed to her job.

“I know her very well, I have supervised her for 10 years, she was such a charming and hard working person. Honestly, it’s a big blow for us, the deceased will be remembered for so many things,” he said.

According to him, in pursuing her carrier the deceased was flexible to work on any assignment, adding that Ms Athumani was always ready to help anyone who wanted her assistance. (Deogratius Kamagi)

Ms Athumani also worked for Radio Tanzania Dar es Salaam, Business Times Limited (Majira) and The Citizen newspaper an English publication of Mwananchi Communication Ltd (MCL) before joining to Daily News on August 2009.