Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
WHILE many teenagers are busy scrolling through social media, 17-year-old Mpendulo Sibanda is busy becoming a star on it!
Popularly known as Mpabanga, the Bulawayo-based content creator and musician is quickly making a name for himself on TikTok with rib-cracking comedy skits that have attracted thousands of followers and likes.
The young entertainer, who grew up between Gwanda and Bulawayo, has built a loyal fan base under the TikTok handle @Mpabanga_vines, where he boasts more than 14 500 followers and over 183 700 likes. His Facebook page has also attracted more than 19 000 followers.
Behind the viral videos is a humble student with big dreams and a passion for making people laugh.
“My name is Mpendulo Sibanda and I’m a 17-year-old content creator and musician from Gwanda and Bulawayo.
Beyond TikTok, I’m a student, a storyteller and someone who enjoys making people laugh while sharing real life in Matabeleland South,” he said.
Mpabanga’s journey into content creation began in 2021 while he was still in Form One.
“I wanted to share stories from Gwanda in a funny and relatable way. TikTok gave me a platform to showcase my talent to people beyond my community,” he said.
His comedy content, especially the popular “Madzibaba” skits, has become a hit among followers who enjoy his local humour and relatable characters.
The Madzibaba series remains his biggest success story so far, with one video attracting more than 10 000 likes.
“I think it resonated with people because many can relate to the character and the humour feels very local and authentic,” he said.
Like many young creators trying to break into the digital world, Mpabanga has faced challenges, including limited mobile data and a lack of professional filming equipment.
However, that has not stopped him.
“I’ve learnt to be creative with what I have, and I use my phone to film and edit my content,” he said.
The teenager says the support he receives from followers keeps him motivated to continue creating content and flying the flag for young talent from Bulawayo and Gwanda.
“My followers inspire me. Their comments, support and laughter motivate me to keep improving and to represent young creators from Bulawayo and Gwanda,” he said.
His growing popularity has also opened doors in music, leading to collaborations including the track Mawuphella with Schlboy and 2myxtadey.
Although his family was initially surprised by his content creation journey, they are now among his biggest cheerleaders.
“At first they were surprised, but now they are proud and supportive. My community in Gwanda often recognises me and encourages me to keep going,” he said.
With ambitions stretching beyond TikTok into music, acting and bigger comedy projects, Mpabanga believes his journey is only beginning.
“I want to build the Mpabanga_vines brand and inspire other young Zimbabwean creators,” he said.
Armed with little more than a smartphone, creativity and determination, the teenage comedian is proving that big dreams can start with a simple video and a good laugh. From Bulawayo to timelines across the country, Mpabanga’s star is shining brighter with every post.
