Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Arts practitioner Raisedon Baya has said Babongile Sikhonjwa will be remembered for his unpredictable humour, which often made him stand out.
Sikhonjwa, celebrated for his colourful personality, radio presence, and comedic flair, died on September 21 in Bulawayo. He was 49.
Baya said while Sikhonjwa was multi-talented – a comedian, radio personality, actor and musician – it was his raw and unfiltered approach to comedy that set him apart.
“When I first tried promoting comedy, I had Babongile, Future Love, and Zenzo Nyathi on the line-up. Edgar Langeveldt was supposed to perform but didn’t make it.
“The show at the National Art Gallery in Bulawayo was a big success, but the next day, some people told me they loved comedy but couldn’t bring their wives or elders if Sikhonjwa was on stage. His jokes were not for everyone. He was unpredictable – he could shoot from the hip anytime, and no one could control or change him,” recalled Baya.
Yet beyond the sometimes polarising delivery, Baya said Sikhonjwa’s heart was firmly with the arts and supporting others.
“When I launched my book, he was one of the first people to buy a copy. I remember joking with him and asking why he bought it, because he was not a reading person. His response was just a laugh, and as expected, he never collected his copy. Every time we met, he would remind me that he had not collected his copy.”
Baya also fondly recalled road trips with Sikhonjwa, the late Sihlangu Dlodlo, and Allan “Reaper” Mpofu, journeys filled with unpredictable jokes and uncontrollable laughter.
“He was a man you could never script. You just had to enjoy the ride,” said Baya.
