Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
At Zimbabwe’s bustling kombi ranks, where conductors hustle daily to attract passengers and make a living, one man has managed to transform the experiences of owindi (conductors) into content that resonates with thousands online.
Philip Sibanda, popularly known on TikTok as Seve7ven or “Iwindi Eligezayo”, has built a growing following by using humour, storytelling, and everyday experiences to shine a spotlight on the lives of kombi conductors while challenging stereotypes often associated with the profession.
Known by many as the self-proclaimed “President WamaWindi”, Sibanda has amassed more than 13 700 followers on TikTok through content that fellow conductors and ordinary Zimbabweans find relatable.j
“I started posting on TikTok in February last year,” Sibanda said. “At first, I thought TikTok was just like Facebook and Instagram, where people keep their pictures. Later, I realised it’s different. You need followers, and you have to create content.”
Like many aspiring creators, he initially followed popular trends and participated in online commentaries before discovering his own niche.
“There were a lot of trends from content creators like That Boy Wow. I then decided to make my content different and call myself ‘Iwindi Eligezayo’,” he said.
The content creator said one of his main goals has been to challenge the negative perceptions many people have about kombi conductors.
“I made those videos to address the stereotypes people have against owindi,” he said.
One of his most popular and personally meaningful videos focuses on correcting misconceptions surrounding the term “uwindi”, which many people often associate with dirtiness and undesirable behaviour.
In the video, Sibanda argues that being an uwindi has nothing to do with being dirty or irresponsible.
“An uwindi is someone clever and hustling for money. People should stop having that mentality towards owindi,” he said.
The video sparked conversations online and further increased his popularity among followers who appreciated his efforts to defend and uplift the image of conductors. His famous catchphrase, “Angina beef, angina kwali”, has since become a favourite among his growing fan base.
While many of his videos tackle social issues affecting conductors, some of his most-viewed content features his close-knit crew, known as the Crazy 4.
“The videos that trend the most are the ones I’m doing with my crew, the Crazy 4. People really relate to them,” he said.
Although several of his videos have performed well, Sibanda says the one addressing misconceptions about uwindi remains closest to his heart because of the message behind it.
“It is special to me because it talks about the misconceptions people have about conductors and explains who we really are,” he said.
The support he receives from fellow conductors continues to motivate him to keep creating content, despite balancing it with his demanding day job.
“What motivates me is the community and my fellow conductors. When I go a while without posting a video, they ask me why I have stopped. That shows they care about my content and they like it.”
He added that the positive feedback has made him realise the impact his content has on others: “I realised I inspire a lot of people with my content, so that keeps me motivated.”
Unlike many content creators who encounter obstacles on their digital journeys, Sibanda says he has enjoyed a relatively smooth experience.
“I have not faced any challenges when it comes to content creation.”
His family has embraced his growing online profile and continues to support his work.
“My family is happy about my content. They like the recognition I’m getting.”
Among friends, however, reactions have varied.
“Some feel jealous, but it is what it is. Others are very proud of me.”
Despite attracting thousands of views and a loyal audience, Sibanda says TikTok has not yet translated into financial rewards.
“Unfortunately, TikTok hasn’t done anything for me in terms of money and opportunities.”
