Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THOSE who crossed paths with the late media personality and entertainer Babongile Sikhonjwa know that time spent with him — whether at a bar, a show, or a casual hangout — was never ordinary. Being in his presence was a thrilling gamble between caution and chaos: you either strapped yourself in for the wild ride, braced for the consequences the next day, or stepped back just before the adventure began.
For those who took the plunge, the reward was always the same —nights filled with roaring laughter, outrageous escapades and stories that lived on long after sunrise.
This was the essence of Sikhonjwa. But his outlook on life took on even deeper meaning after a near-death experience on December 21, 2014. He was involved in a serious car accident following a night out in his hometown of Bulawayo — reportedly en route to the western suburbs from a nightclub in the city, accompanied by his friend, the late comedian, Clive Chigubhu.
The crash left him critically injured, and he spent nearly two weeks in hospital before being discharged. That brush with death, he would later say, completely changed his perspective.
“When you realise you almost didn’t make it, when you see how much you haven’t done, it changes everything. When I left the hospital, I decided I was going to live my life. At least when I leave this earth, I’ll have enjoyed myself. That’s why, with everything I do, I make sure I’m enjoying it — from hosting the best radio show when Skyz Metro FM launched, to every moment on stage.
“After ICU, there’s nothing to be afraid of. I’m grateful for every platform I’ve had to share my talent with people,” he said in a previous interview.
And live life to the fullest he did — boldly, unapologetically and without regret.
As friends, colleagues and fans continue to mourn, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub spoke to some of the creatives who knew Sikhonjwa best. Their memories paint a vivid picture of a man who lived, loved and laughed without limits.
To them, Sikhonjwa was more than a media personality. He was a connector, a mentor, a mischief-maker and a friend. He lived without fear, brought people together and left behind countless stories that will be told for generations.
Comedian Ntando Van Moyo said the late entertainer lived like a rock star. He fondly recalled one night out that turned into an unforgettable first.
“After a show in town, we went to a strip club. I’d never been to one in my life. We left thinking it was still night, only to find out it was eight in the morning. We had no money left and hadn’t even spent time with the ladies we tipped.
We were imitating things we’d seen in movies. That’s why I say he lived like a rock star — because he truly did.”
Van Moyo added that Sikhonjwa was always there for comedians.
“He always showed up for us at Umahlekisa Comedy Club. He opened doors and created opportunities. I bet all the ladies in heaven are under fire from his jokes right now.”
Fellow broadcaster Zandile “Zazalicious” Ndlovu said her memories with Sikhonjwa could fill a book. One moment stands out: a night after a Heavy K gig at Club Eden (now Cosmopolitan).
“We partied all night and forgot we had the breakfast show on Skyz Metro FM the next morning. We went straight from the gig to the studio, running on adrenaline, until fatigue kicked in. The station owner, Qhubani Moyo, walked in with a bottle of whisky and told us to drink it so we could finish the show. It turned into one of the craziest and best shows we ever did together.”
She said what she would miss most was Sikhonjwa’s energy and warmth.
“His smile, that hearty raspy laugh and his hugs — he gave the best hugs. My heart is broken, but I know he’s in a good place. He ran his race well.”
Musician Mzoe7 recalled how Sikhonjwa once arranged a limousine ride to Matobo for artistes to meet historian, Pathisa Nyathi.
“When we arrived in Matobo, we got a red-carpet welcome in the rural areas — that was Sikhonjwa. He introduced us to Pathisa Nyathi as ‘the future heroes of Bulawayo’s entertainment industry’. He showed love to everyone, regardless of status or age.”
Comedian Carl Joshua Ncube reflected on how Sikhonjwa created moments of connection.
“I remember us cooking a whole sheep on a spit in Richmond, just talking and networking around the fire. Another time, in my empty house in Harare, we shared warm beer and ramen. He made even the simplest moments feel special.”
They also shared a passion for pushing boundaries in comedy.
“We’d celebrate great Zimbabweans through stand-up, often roasting people or exploring Shona-Ndebele differences. I took criticism personally, but I never once heard him rant — even his complaints were funny.”
Former model Khaya-elihle Pardon Khanye first knew Sikhonjwa as a DJ at Kudu Bar. Later, he sought him out for mentorship.
“I thought I was a comedian, but he told me I was better suited as an MC. Once, at a Miss Rural Zimbabwe event, I was vulgar on stage and Sipho Mazibuko complained. Sikhonjwa laughed and said, ‘Sipho is going to kill you. Are you mad?’”
Performer Lady Tshawe remembered Sikhonjwa as a mentor and motivator from the very beginning of her career.
“From our first MCing gig in 2009 to our work at Isigodlo Samakhosi, you always believed in me. You pushed me to get on the radio and never stop pursuing the arts.
“You did this for me and so many others. Your departure has left a huge void, but thank you for living your life to the fullest — and unapologetically,” she said.
