Brian Banda, the Director General of the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) has died on Saturday.

His funeral will take place on Monday.

Colleagues described him as a dynamic force in public broadcasting.

Banda was appointed to lead the MBC on 16 November 2025. 

In less than a year at the helm, he earned a reputation for championing modernisation and advancing the corporation's public service mandate.

His unexpected death has caused widespread shock and grief among media professionals at home and around the world.

Among the first to react was Menesia Muinjo, Director General of the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation.

In a statement issued on behalf of the NBC Board, management and staff, Muinjo expressed profound sadness and conveyed heartfelt condolences to its Sister Broadcaster and in particular to the Banda family.

Muinjo highlighted the continental loss, noting that the Late Banda's vibrancy to advancing broadcasting mandates and related interests will be missed, not only in Malawi but by the broadcasting industry in general, especially in the region where both served under the Southern Africa Broadcasting Association.

She also called on media practitioners, especially those at MBC, to carry forward his vision.

Muinjo further states that it is her hope that colleagues in the media industry, and specifically at the MBC, will further his legacy, ideals and impacts as credited to him during his short tenure as DG.

The MBC released a formal programme for Monday's burial.