Zimpapers ushers in digital-first era

Zimbabwe's oldest and largest media group, Zimpapers (Zimbabwe Newspapers 1980 Ltd), has taken a major step in its digital transformation by appointing editors who prioritise online and digital platforms over traditional print publications. The move marks a decisive shift from the company's historic model, which focused primarily on newspapers such as The Herald, Chronicle, Sunday Mail, Sunday News, and Manica Post.

Under the new structure, editors of individual titles are now subordinated to a centralised newsroom, known as the "Super Desk," which integrates print, radio, television, and digital publishing. The model divides editorial responsibilities between input and output editors: input editors manage diaries, assignments, and raw story processing, while output editors refine and package content for specific platforms. This approach enables the production of multimedia content—including written stories, video, audio, infographics, and interactive elements—tailored for online audiences and Zimpapers' app.

The overhaul is part of Zimpapers' strategy to modernise news gathering and monetisation in an era where traditional revenue streams—advertising, airtime, print copy sales, and supplements—are in decline. By focusing on online audiences, subscriptions, and digital advertising, the company aims to secure long-term sustainability in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

As part of the transformation, seasoned journalist Elias Mambo has been appointed editorial executive, effective January 1, 2026. Mambo, who previously served as deputy general manager digital and acting editorial executive, will lead Zimpapers' digital editorial transformation. With over 15 years of experience across private and public media in Zimbabwe and the region, Mambo has worked with Zimbabwe Independent, the Sunday Times of South Africa, Zim Morning Post, and Malawi's Independent Digest, where he held a proprietary interest.

Other key appointments include Kudzanai Sharara (Business Hub and Events), Itayi Musengeyi (Intake Editor – Super Desk), Pauline Matanda (Corporate Communications and Sustainability Manager), Yvonne Tivatye (Station Manager, Capitalk 100.4FM), and Herbert Zharare (Day Editor – Super Desk). The Harare Super Desk coordinates closely with regional hubs in Bulawayo, where veteran journalist Limukani Ncube serves as intake editor, and in Mutare, where Manica Post editor Cletus Mushanawani acts as output and input editor.

Group Chief Executive William Chikoto said the appointments reflect Zimpapers' commitment to embracing a digital-first approach. "Elias Mambo will lead the editorial digital transformation process currently underway at Zimpapers," Chikoto said, highlighting the company's goal of producing high-quality, multimedia content for a growing online audience.

The new model positions Zimpapers to adapt to shifting consumption habits, expand its digital reach, and capitalise on emerging revenue streams while maintaining journalistic standards across Zimbabwe's diverse media landscape.