JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, September 2025 — South African visual journalist Sebabatso “Sebs” Mosamo, known for her fearless storytelling and empathy in documenting South Africa’s most urgent realities, has died at age 39 after falling ill in Johannesburg, according to the Associated Press.
Mosamo joined AP in 2021 and quickly became one of its most respected voices in Africa, covering elections, the COVID-19 pandemic, inequality, and violence. Her images captured both the dignity and the struggles of ordinary people, bringing South Africa’s stories to the world.
“We are at a loss for words and our hearts are shattered,” her family said in a statement. “She took so much pride in her work and family.” (AP News)
A Voice Through the Lens
Mosamo began her career as a student photojournalist, bravely covering the 2012 Marikana massacre — one of South Africa’s most painful chapters. Even with limited equipment, she worked up close, following her principle of “zooming in with your feet.”
Her career evolved to include co-authoring the book We Are Going To Kill Each Other Today and producing a documentary on rural violence — expanding her storytelling beyond still images. (AP News)
Influence and Legacy
Colleagues recall her as collaborative, ambitious, and humble. Recently chosen for AP’s leadership development program, Mosamo was set to shape the next generation of newsroom leaders.
“She always felt she was still learning. She was so dedicated,” said fellow photographer Felix Dlangamandla.
Her work amplified the voices of marginalized communities and highlighted both injustice and resilience.
She is survived by her daughter, her mother, and two brothers. Friends say she balanced her demanding career with family, often setting alarms to ensure she picked her child up from school.
Why Her Story Matters
- Representation: A rare female voice in frontline visual journalism.
- Courage: Documented violent, politically charged events despite danger.
- Humanity: Her work gave dignity to South Africa’s poor and marginalized.
Her passing is a reminder of the risks, sacrifices, and importance of African journalists in shaping global understanding.
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