Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
South African DJ and media personality DJ Fresh has described the late Babongile Sikhonjwa as a genuine, patient and selfless individual who respected the entertainment craft and always went the extra mile to support those around him.
Sikhonjwa, a celebrated media personality, arts promoter and socialite, died on September 21 at the age of 49. He was buried on Saturday at Mlowezi Village in Gwanda, leaving a legacy that touched countless lives across the arts and culture sectors.
In a video clip, DJ Fresh, real name Thato Sikwane, said he shared over two decades of unforgettable memories with Sikhonjwa, who consistently ensured he felt at home whenever he visited Bulawayo.
“Our friendship goes back almost 20 years. I first met Babongile when I was billed to perform at Visions Night Club in Bulawayo, where he was working as a marketing consultant. From that day, he treated me like family,” said DJ Fresh.
One of the memories that stands out for the veteran DJ is a night in the mid-2000s when he almost missed a performance at that nightclub.
“I remember there was a time, I think it was 2006 or 2007, when my wife and I had a crazy Friday night and barely slept. We were supposed to fly to Bulawayo the next day, but we accidentally fell asleep in the car at the gate and missed our flight. I had never missed a gig before, and I was determined not to start then,” he recalled.
It was Sikhonjwa who came up with a plan that would save the day.
“He suggested I travel by road to Zimbabwe. At that time, I didn’t know I needed certain papers to cross the Beitbridge border with my car. We packed up and hit the road. Babongile assured me he’d meet me on the Zimbabwean side of the border and drive me straight to Visions,” said DJ Fresh.
Despite the challenges, the plan worked, and the experience left a lasting impression on him.
“I remember crossing that bridge on foot and finding Babongile waiting patiently for me. Even though we were delayed, the show still went on. That’s how dedicated and dependable he was,” he said.
“I remember they told the patrons at Visions that I would only arrive at 5am, and they waited. I think we got there right around that time, and I played for about three hours, if I’m not mistaken. Afterwards, we all headed to a lodge for an after-party that you guys had organised with a whole group of brothers.”
Their bond extended far beyond the DJ booth. DJ Fresh fondly remembers the countless braais, deep conversations, and shared laughter they enjoyed whenever he visited Zimbabwe. He also credits Sikhonjwa for introducing him to one of his favourite drinks.
“He’s the reason I love Mazoe Orange Crush. It became a tradition every time I was in town,” he added with a smile.
Veteran South African actor and musician Israel Matseke Zulu also paid an emotional tribute to Sikhonjwa, praising him as a cultural bridge-builder who championed artistic collaboration between Zimbabwe and South Africa.
“The Southern African arts scene has lost a true icon, a man who dedicated his life to uniting our region through creativity,” said Zulu.
He remembered Sikhonjwa as a humble, down-to-earth friend who always went out of his way to make visitors feel welcome.
“Every time I came to Zimbabwe, Babongile would be there to pick me up from the airport. We’d drive around, go out to clubs, and just have fun. He always reminded me to stay grounded and let go of the celebrity attitude,” Zulu said.
“He even took me along to pick up his son from school, that’s how close we were. He was a loving, caring person, and I will deeply miss him. May his soul rest in peace.”
As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Babongile Sikhonjwa’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those he inspired, not only as a promoter and media personality but as a friend, mentor, and cultural connector.
