marble nkomo
Amos Mpofu, [email protected]
BULAWAYO-BASED comedy duo Gogo naS’ngijo and Spikiri Umzukulu kagogo have emerged as some of the most engaging social media sensations in Zimbabwe, keeping audiences smiling with skilfully crafted comic skits inspired by everyday life.
Their work, marked by strong characterisation and natural humour, has resonated widely with local audiences and beyond.
Hailing from Nkayi in Matabeleland North Province, the duo has gained a reputation for using comedy to highlight relatable social issues.
Gogo naS’ngijo, born Innocent Nyoni (33), performs alongside Praymore Moyo (30), who plays Spikiri.
Together, they have carved out a unique comic identity that blends satire, cultural memory and social commentary.
In an era where comedy increasingly dominates the arts and fuels social media engagement, the duo stands out for its consistency and authenticity. Their skits feature a range of characters that mirror the daily experiences of ordinary people, presented in a way that is both humorous and thought-provoking.
Their comedy journey began in 2020 and has steadily grown into a source of livelihood.
Nyoni’s character, Gogo naS’ngijo, he revealed, is inspired by his late maternal grandmother, Lucy Nkala, who raised him after he lost his parents at the age of 10.
“Gogo naSngijo is an emotional inspiration and a reflection of my grandmother. She was a very straightforward woman, who never sugar-coated her words. Growing up, we thought she was troublesome, but now we realise she was always right.
“I emulate her as an old, forgetful and troublesome granny and people who knew her can see her clearly in my acting.”
He added that portraying the character is also a way of honouring her memory.
“I realised I was talented in voice-changing and acting, so I decided to use that voice, which is not my natural one. It makes the character unique and at the same time, I am paying tribute to my grandmother through drama.”
The character’s signature costume, complete with a red doek, Tommy shoes and a long brown skirt, was bought at a flea market in Tembisa, South Africa, where Nyoni had been promoting his song Ilibo Lethu, which featured his grandmother’s voice.
Before comedy brought them together, both Nyoni and Moyo had gospel music backgrounds and first crossed paths at gospel concerts. Nyoni previously recorded under the brand Innocent Nyoni, releasing eight gospel albums, while Moyo worked as a backing artiste with the Disciples of Jesus Christ gospel choir. Today, Moyo continues to provide backing vocals for Gogo naS’ngijo’s musical projects.
Remarkably, the duo later discovered that they are relatives, a revelation that came during Nyoni’s wedding.
“Spikiri was my best man. Our relatives recognised each other at the wedding and traced our family roots. We were the only ones who didn’t know we were related. We praised God for that as it showed us that our union is His work.”
Their chemistry on stage is entirely organic. The duo does not script their skits.
“We just plan verbally and then dive straight into acting. That is why the production feels smooth and natural. We act about everyday issues affecting everyday people,” they said.
Their first major road show in 2020, held at Unity Village in Bulawayo, remains a highlight.
“People blocked the roads to watch us perform. They supported us with small amounts, R2, $1 and $5. We made hundreds that day and it encouraged us to perform in places like Gwanda and Filabusi.”
However, despite their growing popularity, financial constraints remain a challenge.
“We’re loaded with ideas that could positively impact the nation. But hiring equipment is expensive. A PA system alone costs around US$400, which forces us to rely on phones for recording,” said Moyo.
They appealed for support to help them grow and realise their full potential.
While still aiming for greater profitability, the duo says their work is already attracting commercial interest.
“At the moment, we earn income through advertising. Companies approach us, we show them our work and together we craft a skit that promotes their brand or product in an impactful way,” said Moyo.
Nyoni shared their aspirations to formalise their craft and expand their reach.
“We wish to hold properly planned shows featuring Gogo naS’ngijo and Spikiri. We’d also love our work to be aired on national television or even have a channel dedicated to our dramas so that our audience is not deprived of our art,” said Nyoni.
Beyond social media, the pair also work as MCs at weddings and other functions, blending hosting with live acting.
“Both of us are MCs. Whenever it’s time for entertainment, we transform into our characters and perform,” said Nyoni.
Although their social media platforms have not yet been fully monetised, they are optimistic about the future.
“We are in the process of monetising our social media handles. Our follower numbers are now surpassing 100 000.”
The duo has begun producing episodic series, including Impilo Yes’Loja, which depicts the realities of tenant life and is planning a new drama featuring Gwanda-based actor, Maqedimbuzi.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter