Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
BULAWAYO is preparing to bid a final farewell to media and arts icon Babongile Sikhonjwa, with a memorial service set to take place tomorrow, September 26, at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre.
Sikhonjwa, affectionately known as Babo, passed away in Bulawayo on Sunday, September 21, at the age of 49. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a radio host, MC, comedian and cultural activist.
Arts practitioner Saimon Mambazo Phiri, who is co-ordinating the memorial, said the full programme would be released today.
“The service will begin at Sikhonjwa’s home in Richmond (1 Erin Road) at 8AM. From there, the convoy will proceed through the city, passing key landmarks including the Joshua Nkomo statue, Skyz Metro FM (Pioneer House) and venues where Babo worked, such as The Red Café,” said Mambazo.
The main memorial service will commence at the Amphitheatre at 11AM and run until 3PM. Thereafter, Sikhonjwa’s body will be transported to his rural home in Mlowezi, under Chief Masuku, Gwanda district, where it will lie in state before burial on Saturday, September 27. The homestead is located approximately 80km from the city along the Bulawayo-Gwanda Road, near Glass Block Dam.
Mambazo said selected friends, colleagues and community members will share personal reflections during the service.
“Sikhonjwa was a great connector. Many people from different stages of his life want to honour him, so we’ve compiled a strong list of speakers to guide everyone through his journey,” he said.
He also called on artistes, business leaders, friends and organisations who worked with Sikhonjwa to come together and celebrate the life of a selfless creative, who left a lasting mark on Bulawayo and Zimbabwe’s arts scene.
In parallel, friends of Sikhonjwa have launched a fundraising initiative to support his family with funeral logistics. His sister, Babusisiwe Bathabile Moyo, confirmed that the family is aware and supports the initiative.
“They informed us that they want to raise funds in honour of Babo, and we’ve given them the green light,” she said.
Fundraising organiser Qhubani Moyo noted that Sikhonjwa’s influence extended beyond Zimbabwe, with friends abroad eager to contribute. A GoFundMe page has been set up, while local well-wishers can donate via EcoCash or Mukuru on +263 772 748 000 (registered under Qhubani Moyo).
“This is our own version of Zibuthe or Incebethu, where the community comes together to support a bereaved family. All funds raised will go directly to the Sikhonjwa family, who have blessed the initiative,” Moyo said, emphasising the gesture is one of appreciation for Sikhonjwa’s life and enduring friendships, rather than financial need.
Meanwhile, friends, colleagues, and admirers continue to gather at 1a Erin Road, Richmond, Bulawayo, to pay their respects and celebrate the life and impact of Babongile Sikhonjwa.
