eNCA journalist Nabeelah Shaikh dies at 34 while seven months pregnant

The South African journalism community is mourning the death of eNCA investigative reporter Nabeelah Shaikh, who passed away on Saturday, 14 November 2026, at the age of 34.

Shaikh was seven months pregnant at the time of her death and was laid to rest at Westpark Cemetery in Johannesburg alongside her unborn child.

The journalist was remembered as a dedicated and accomplished reporter whose work included investigations into issues such as ISIS recruitment and corruption.

She had recently shared news of her second pregnancy and had also joined eNCA's investigations team, where colleagues said she had already made a meaningful contribution.

Shaikh leaves behind her husband, Waseem Ally, and their young daughter, Maahira.

Her colleagues have described her as a journalist who combined determination and tenacity with warmth, kindness and generosity.

Pule Letshwiti-Jones, who worked with Shaikh in eNCA's investigations unit, said her death had left colleagues devastated.

He recalled that only days before her death, the pair had been discussing plans for the investigative unit, including shopping for new laptop covers.

“You were so optimistic,” Letshwiti-Jones said, describing Shaikh as instrumental to the team's work and a unifying presence within her family.

He also reflected on their professional relationship, which dated back to the e.tv News era, and praised Shaikh for her wisdom, kindness and generosity.

Fellow journalist Heidi Giokos also paid tribute to Shaikh, describing her as “the kindest, sweetest and most caring” person.

Giokos expressed her heartbreak over Shaikh's death and the loss of her unborn child, praying that she would be granted the highest rank in Jannah.

Shaikh's death has left a deep void among colleagues who worked alongside her throughout her journalism career.

She is being remembered not only for her award-winning investigative work, but also as a wife, mother, daughter, colleague and friend whose life touched many people.

The eNCA family described her as a beloved and respected investigative reporter who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.