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Langalakhe Mabena-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has accorded the late media personality, cultural icon and socialite Babongile Sikhonjwa a State-assisted funeral in recognition of his contribution to Zimbabwe’s arts and culture industry.
The announcement was made yesterday by the Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, during a prayer service held at the Sikhonjwa family home in Richmond.
Minister Ncube revealed that the Government had contributed US$10 000 to support funeral logistics and arrangements.
Sikhonjwa, affectionately known as Babo, died in Bulawayo on Sunday, 21 September, at the age of 49. Minister Ncube read out a letter from ZANU–PF Secretary General, Advocate Jacob Mudenda, announcing the conferment of the State-assisted funeral.
“His Excellency, the President and First Secretary of ZANU–PF, Cde Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, has conferred a State-assisted funeral on the late Cde Babongile Sikhonjwa, who passed away on 21 September 2025. He will be laid to rest at Mlowezi Village, under Chief Mzimuni in Gwanda,” the letter read.
She said the President had seen it fit to honour Sikhonjwa, whom she described as a hero who used his gift to inspire, empower and connect people.
“We have been sent to deliver a message to the family following the death of our friend, a friend of the nation. The President saw it appropriate to express our collective grief following the passing of Babongile,” said Minister Ncube.
She added that a director from her office had been appointed to work closely with the family in preparing for the funeral and covering associated costs. “This is the message we bring, condolences from the President and the people of Zimbabwe,” she said.
Minister Ncube described Sikhonjwa as “a proud son of Bulawayo whose life was devoted to uplifting the city’s arts and cultural landscape.”
“Through his tireless efforts, we see him as a hero. He used his talent to inspire, empower and connect people. It is only fitting that he receives this honour.”
Sikhonjwa’s father, Nicholas Sikhonjwa Moyo, expressed the family’s gratitude to the Government, stating that the State’s support would significantly ease their preparations.
“We were facing logistical challenges, especially at the rural home, because Sikhonjwa was a people’s person, and we are expecting many mourners. As a family, we had sourced food, including two beasts, but we knew it would not be enough. We’re deeply thankful for this gesture, which will go a long way in addressing those challenges,” he said.
Today, a memorial service in Sikhonjwa’s honour will be held at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre. Proceedings will begin at the Richmond home (1 Erin Road) at 8am, followed by a city-wide convoy passing significant landmarks that shaped his career, including the Joshua Nkomo statue, Skyz Metro FM (Pioneer House), and iconic venues such as The Red Café and Hlabangana Lounge.
The main memorial service will begin at 11am and run until 3pm. After the service, Sikhonjwa’s body will be transported to his rural home in Mlowezi, Gwanda District, Matabeleland South, where it will lie in state before his burial on Saturday, 27 September. The homestead is located about 80km from Bulawayo, along the Bulawayo–Gwanda Road, near Glass Block Dam.
Known by many affectionate monikers including Foza, Bubbles and Mrifith, Sikhonjwa was more than just a media personality. He was a visionary, a creative force, a beloved mentor, a devoted father, and a cultural custodian whose energy transformed spaces and touched lives wherever he went.
His educational journey took him through Baines Infant, Cecil John Rhodes, Baines Junior, and Louis Mountbatten schools, before completing his primary education at Baines. At Mzingwane High School, his passion for theatre and music blossomed. Later, at Milton High School, he excelled in athletics, representing the school in the 100m and 200m sprints.
After studying Computer Science at the Academy of Learning in Zimbabwe, he pursued further studies in Computer Science and Media Entertainment in the United Kingdom, merging technical knowledge with a passion for storytelling and performance, a fusion that defined his later career.
Upon his return to Zimbabwe, he founded Katts Studio, a creative hub that nurtured emerging talent including Otis Ngwabi and Trey Elephant. In 2015, Sikhonjwa joined Skyz Metro FM, where he became one of the station’s defining voices, notably hosting the Vuka Vuka breakfast show.
He later worked at NRtv as a producer and presenter, before joining Star FM in 2023, where he hosted the After-Drive show.
But Sikhonjwa’s influence extended far beyond broadcasting. Known for his sharp wit, charisma and infectious humour, he was the go-to Master of Ceremonies for high-profile events such as the National Arts Merit Awards.
