Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
At Bulawayo’s bustling central business district, Red Café stands out with its mural-covered walls and the aroma of isitshwala. To the casual diner, it is a simple eatery. But to artistes, dreamers, and hustlers, it is something else entirely; a stage, a meeting ground, and a place where possibility was served alongside the food.
At the centre of it all was the late Babongile “SaQobo” Sikhonjwa, a man whose booming laugh and unpredictable humour made him unforgettable.
When news of his death began circulating on Sunday, the shock rippled far beyond the café. For many, the loss was not just that of a broadcaster or comedian, but of a cultural gatekeeper who transformed a restaurant into a talent factory.
Red Café became a launchpad for countless creatives. Its doors were always open, not just for patrons hungry for a meal, but for artistes hungry for a chance.
From poetry nights to live bands, comedy sets to hip-hop cyphers, the venue buzzed with an energy that was distinctly Bulawayo.
Local musician Lynden Lungu recalls how Sikhonjwa always gave room for others to shine.
“The first time we worked together was on Red on Red, a Valentine’s event at Red Café. Later, he gave us space for our iMagiNation workshops. He even gave us airtime on his Star FM show. That’s just who he was, opening doors,” Lungu said.
For young artiste Absoll Luz, the memories are deeply personal.
“My first time performing at Red Café was in 2023. He gave me a chance to have my music played on the radio. Every time we met, he showed love. He even teased me once after beating me at cards during the Kokota Festival,” Luz said.
Perhaps one of the café’s biggest success stories was the Hip-Hop Power Sessions. Established by Brintz and Farai in 2022, the monthly showcase became a staple in Bulawayo’s creative calendar. Yet, it almost did not happen.
“We pitched the idea to many places, and no one gave us a chance. When we walked into Red Café, Sikhonjwa didn’t even need the full pitch. He embraced it on the spot, gave us a slot, and even started schooling us on Bulawayo hip-hop history. From day one, it was synergy.”
That attitude, of seeing beyond the surface and investing in people, is what set Sikhonjwa apart.
He was not content to sit back as a host at the establishment; he often joined in the fun. With Band Fusion, a group now sought after in the city, he would jump on stage for surprise performances, much to the crowd’s delight. In a tribute, the band wrote:
“You played a very special role in our formation and growth. You opened doors for many Bulawayo artistes. You will forever occupy a special place in our hearts.”
What happened at Red Café did not stay there. Sikhonjwa brought Star FM’s After Drive show live to the venue twice a week, placing local talent on a national platform. For many Bulawayo artistes, it was their first taste of nationwide recognition.
Fast-rising singer Noluntu J said her career is proof of Sikhonjwa’s faith in others.
“You saw a star in me before I did. Thank you for the lives you changed and the dreams you made come true. You were indeed a Bulawayo rockstar.”
Colleagues at Star FM also remember his light. News presenter Thobekile “Babes WeNdaba” Sibanda, one of many featured on his show, said:
“He had a way of making everyone feel seen and heard. His enthusiasm was contagious. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.”
His co-host on After Drive, Nyenge the Dimple Lady, who shared studio time with Sikhonjwa from Monday to Thursday between 6:30pm and 8pm, said their bond went beyond radio.
Together, they entertained thousands of listeners while building a friendship grounded in laughter, respect, and creativity.
Nyenge described her late co-host as a man who brought colour to every room he entered.
“It was almost two years working with him, and I can say he was full of life, there was never a dull moment around him. In the short time I worked with him,
“I learnt to live. Sikhonjwa lived his life to the fullest, and he bothered no one. I will greatly miss him.”
She said she will always remember him for his vibrant voice and the dry, unpredictable jokes that became a signature part of the After Drive show.
