Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
LARGER than life both on and off the mic, Babongile Sikhonjwa was more than a radio host, he was a cultural force, a comedian, creative visionary and champion of the underdog.
Sikhonjwa helped shape Bulawayo’s radio identity and left a mark so profound that, even in his absence, his presence still lingers in the city’s heartbeat.
Few understood that better than Qhubani Moyo, former chief executive officer of Fairtalk Communications, the parent company of Skyz Metro FM, who worked closely with Sikhonjwa for nearly a decade and watched him evolve from a boundary-pushing entertainer into one of the most influential broadcasters in the region.
When Skyz Metro FM was still just an idea, Moyo knew exactly who he wanted as the voice to carry its vision.
“Well, I’ve known Sikhonjwa for quite some time from the entertainment scene — as a DJ, MC and a cutting-edge talent with a deep passion for local music, particularly from Matabeleland and South Africa,” Moyo said.
“When we were planning the station, he was the first person I identified. The late Cont Mhlanga (founding vice-chairperson of Fairtalk Communications) and I agreed that he should drive our programming because of his deep connection to local issues and his understanding of the region.”
So vital was Sikhonjwa to the concept that he was hired before the station even received its broadcasting licence. His charisma, wit and authenticity made auditions unnecessary. Once on air, he immediately justified that faith. Hosting the flagship Vuka Vuka breakfast show, despite scepticism about whether a nightlife king could thrive in early mornings, Sikhonjwa became the station’s defining voice.
“To our surprise, he consistently met expectations, showing up on time and bringing the infectious energy we needed. His programmes were among the best,” Moyo recalled.
Listeners agreed. Sikhonjwa’s personality was so intertwined with the station’s identity that many referred to it simply as Istitshi saboSikhonjwa (Sikhonjwa’s station).
“His name was bigger than mine, even though I was the CEO. That’s the kind of impact he had,” Moyo admitted.
Part of Sikhonjwa’s appeal was his unpredictability.
“He was a cutting-edge creative — jovial, daring and always adventurous. Sometimes he seemed laid-back, but he would come up with ideas that no one else would think of. He was always a cut above the rest.”
That rebellious streak sometimes caused friction behind the scenes, leading to temporary departures from the station. But the bond between Sikhonjwa and Skyz Metro was too strong to sever. He always returned and with him, the audience followed. His later stint on Ingqungquthela cemented his place as one of the most beloved voices on Zimbabwean radio.
Sikhonjwa’s creative influence extended far beyond the airwaves. A tireless advocate for local talent, he used his platform to elevate young musicians, comedians and creatives who might otherwise have gone unheard.
That same love for community and culture was the driving force behind Khokhoba Town, his final project before his untimely death. Conceived as a cultural hub at MaKhumalo Beer Garden, it was designed to capture the essence of township life, a space for art, music, and storytelling inspired by Siyaya’s classic 2002 album, Khokhoba.
“The idea was to create a kasi vibe, a place where people could relax in a typical township setting. It was about reviving the cultural heritage of Makokoba and giving creatives a space to shine,” Moyo said.
Sikhonjwa was not just involved, he was the project’s heartbeat.
“He was in charge and was going to manage it. We spoke last week on Saturday about the opening. The next morning, he was gone.”
The shock of his death has left a deep void, not only in the plans for Khokhoba Town but in the broader creative community.
“He was the librarian of what needed to be done. He left a huge gap in how to make Khokhoba Town a reality. It was his project, a space meant to bring people together in kasi style.”
Though the launch has been postponed to allow for final arrangements and a fitting tribute, the project will go ahead.
“The place is literally ready for opening. And when it does open, it will be more than an event — it will be a celebration of Sikhonjwa’s enduring spirit.”
For those who knew him, Sikhonjwa was never just a DJ or MC. He was a storyteller, a cultural curator and a connector of people. He built spaces, on air and on the ground, where creativity could flourish and communities could come together.
He may no longer sit behind the microphone, but his voice still echoes across Bulawayo, in the music of the artistes he championed, in the energy of the township he sought to celebrate and in the memories of the listeners whose mornings he transformed.
Babongile Sikhonjwa was not just a personality. He was a movement and his story will continue to shape Bulawayo’s creative spirit for generations to come. — @MbuleloMpofu
