Malefo Thinyane
Renowned SABC International News Editor Sophie Mokoena has announced her departure from the public broadcaster, drawing the curtain on a career that has shaped the landscape of South African journalism for decades.
Known for her fearless reporting and sharp political interviews, Mokoena earned a reputation as one of the country’s most respected and influential journalists.
One of the defining moments of her career came in 2015, when I still in varsity, during a tense interview with Lesotho’s former military commander, Lieutenant General Tlali Kamoli. At the time, Lesotho was engulfed in political turmoil, and Kamoli stood at the centre of serious allegations including coup plotting and human rights abuses.
Mokoena did not flinch. Her line of questioning was firm and unrelenting, pressing Kamoli on the unrest and holding him accountable in a manner few would dare. Kamoli, who would later face charges including murder and treason, deflected the questions, but the exchange laid bare the gravity of the political crisis and highlighted Mokoena’s commitment to the truth.
Over the years, Mokoena played a central role in shaping SABC’s international news coverage. Her ability to strike a balance between probing journalism and measured reporting earned her widespread acclaim. Whether reporting on regional conflicts, high-stakes diplomacy, or elections across the continent, she consistently brought clarity and depth to complex stories, earning the trust of viewers and the respect of peers.
As news of her departure spread, tributes poured in across social media, with colleagues, viewers, and fellow journalists celebrating her unwavering dedication to the craft. Many described her as a trailblazer and mentor, a figure who opened doors for younger journalists and raised the bar for political reporting in South Africa and beyond.
Sophie Mokoena’s exit from the SABC marks more than just the end of a professional chapter, it signals the departure of a voice that has long stood as a pillar of journalistic integrity. While she may be stepping away from the newsroom, her impact will endure in the stories she told, the questions she asked, and the standards she set.
Likhomo ‘M’e Sophie!
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