HARARE - Fred Samupindi, the Associated Newspapers of Zimbabwe (ANZ) advertising manager, pictured, has died after a long career as an advertising executive.
Samupindi died at a local hospital after a short illness.
ANZ, publishers of the Daily News and its sister weekly, the Daily News on Sunday, said it had learnt with shock the death of Samupindi.
“The management and staff of the Daily News would like to convey their sincere condolences to the Samupindi family on the passing on of Fred Samupindi,” ANZ said in a statement.
“It was an honour to have known and worked with such a great person and we will truly miss him.
“To Mary and the children, may God embrace you in comfort during this difficult time.”
Colleagues described Samupindi as a true gentleman willing to share his knowledge.
ANZ Group Editor, Stanley Gama said in Samupindi, the company had lost a great man.
“I have worked with my brother, Fred for a long time and when the Daily News was re-launched over two years ago, he was one of the first to be employed. We became very close, working well together and sharing ideas on the success of both the advertising and editorial departments.
“What is even shocking is that I saw him on Friday directing sales representatives on a supplement we were running the following day and I jokingly accused him of delaying the newspaper. We laughed about it and he defended himself arguing that he was busy bringing revenue to the company. That was Fred, always laughing and joking.
“The newsroom has been left shell-shocked because he would interact with everyone. We have lost an advertising pillar. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said Gama.