Tributes pour in for “quintessential gentleman”

Highly regarded businessman and lawyer George Sibanda, was among those killed in a plane crash in Zimbabwe last week. Tributes have been pouring in.

“I first met George in 2007, as I took up recruitment in the legal sphere,” said Cathy Machingaidze, Executive Recruiter and Partner at Redi Holbourne Group. “He was the quintessential gentleman!” He was patient, accommodating and eager to help guide me. George’s passion for training young lawyers and for pushing the transformation agenda were unparalleled. I shall forever be grateful for having experienced his gentle, professional nature.”

An experienced M&A and corporate law specialist, last year Sibanda was recognised and included in the 14th edition of The Best Lawyers in South Africa™ for Corporate Law.

“For those of us who had the privilege of knowing George Sibanda, we are reminded of his ability to instantly connect with people from all walks of life,” said Christo Els, Senior Partner at Webber Wentzel. “He was not just an exceptional lawyer but also, more importantly, an extraordinary friend to many of us. Though George may no longer be with us, his legacy of excellence, compassion, and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire us all. As we mourn his passing, we will also celebrate the incredible life he lived, the countless lives he touched, and the enduring impact he left on our hearts.”

Sibanda worked at Webber Wentzel for a decade before moving to Pinsent Masons as a partner and then to BlaqInc Attorneys and Blaqsuga Investments. News reports indicate he was recently appointed as the new RioZim CEO and was undergoing orientation ahead of moving from South Africa to Zimbabwe.

Sibanda was one of six RioZim colleagues killed in the crash. The others were RioZim Limited owner, Harpal Singh Randhawa; his son Amer Kabir Singh Randhawa; Viswanath Pichumoney; Nikhil Milind Mahadik; and pilot Reginald Muchemwa.

“Mr Randhawa, the visionary owner of our company, was not only a remarkable leader but also a cherished friend and mentor to many of us. His unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence have been the cornerstone of our organization and his legacy will forever be ingrained in the very essence of the company,” read a statement from RioZim Limited.

To join Africa Legal's mailing list please click here