By Tembani P. Thebe
www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
Friends, family and fans filled the Bulawayo Amphitheatre with a mix of sorrow and celebration as they gathered to honor the life of the iconic Babongile Sikhonjwa, lovingly known as the Ndebele Rockstar.
The farewell ceremony, held on a chilly Friday morning for September was a powerful tribute to the lasting impact he made on everyone who knew him.
Those who spoke remembered Sikhonjwa as a man who told fearless truths, a unifier and a passionate supporter of the arts. His wisdom, creativity and generosity inspired many, especially some talents like Otis Ngwabi, Trey Elephant and Nesu whom he mentored at his renowned Katts Studio.
Babongile began his broadcasting career at Skyz Metro FM , later joining the Nkululeko Rusununguko TV and eventually become a house hold name at Star FM.
Sandra Ndebele Sibindi shared a piece of his enduring wisdom “Mugabe wami, if your talent doesn’t make you successful someday, hard work will.”
This phrase perfectly captured his unwavering dedication to his work and his community.
While celebrated by the public, Sikhonjwa was also a devoted family man, deeply loved by his children, Gugulethu and Qobo Moyo and his entire family. His Excellency, President ED Mnangagwa, sent his condolences which were delivered by Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Metropolitan, Judith Ncube, recognizing Sikhonjwa’s significant contribution to Zimbabwe’s creative arts.
“My deepest condolences to the Sikhonjwa family for the loss of your beloved one. It is our loss as a province and as a nation at large; his life and presence reached far beyond the boundaries of the entertainment industry, touching the lives of millions around the world,” said the President of the Second Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa.
“As Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, we are grateful to His Excellency, Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa, for the state-assisted funeral given our cultural icon, Babongile Sikhonjwa. As an iconic figure, he has left an irreplaceable void in our hearts,” said Judith Ncube, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Metropolitan.
As Rev. Ndabezinhle Nyathi led the service, he reminded everyone that Sikhonjwa’s legacy—a shining example of courage, compassion and artistic excellence will live on. His memory will continue to inspire future generations, a true rockstar in every sense of the word.
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