Babongile Skhonjwa’s Body Has Been Taken To His Rural Home In Gwanda

The body of the late broadcaster, comedian, and MC, Babongile Sikhonjwa, departed Doves Funeral Parlour in Bulawayo for his home in Richmond. This was followed by a city tour before the funeral service took place at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre.

The procession later transported his body to his rural home in Gwanda, where he will be laid to rest on Saturday, September 27, 2025.

Timeline of Babongile Sikhonjwa’s Passing

• September 21, 2025: Babongile Sikhonjwa collapsed unexpectedly at a friend’s house in Bulawayo and was rushed to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where he was pronounced dead. He was 49 years old.

• September 25, 2025: President Emmerson Mnangagwa granted Babongile Sikhonjwa a state-assisted funeral in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Zimbabwean arts and culture. An official announcement also declared that a memorial service would be held on September 26 at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre.

• September 26, 2025: A memorial service took place at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre, attended by family, friends, fans, and dignitaries.

• September 27, 2025 (Tomorrow): Babongile Sikhonjwa will be laid to rest at his rural home in Mlozweni Village, under Chief Mzimuni, Gwanda district.

The Zimbabwean community mourns the loss of a rare talent and cultural stalwart whose legacy lives on in the many artists he supported and the indelible mark he left on the country’s creative arts landscape.

Babongile Sikhonjwa, the beloved Zimbabwean entertainer widely known as the “Ndebele Rockstar,” died suddenly on September 21, 2025, at the age of 49. He collapsed at a friend’s house in Bulawayo after complaining of breathing difficulties and was rushed to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His sudden passing shocked the Zimbabwean entertainment community and his many fans across the country.

Sikhonjwa was a multifaceted cultural icon—renowned as a DJ, stand-up comedian, MC, singer, and cultural ambassador. He was also celebrated for his relentless support of emerging artists throughout his career, particularly during his time as a presenter at Star FM and manager of the popular Bulawayo live music venue, Red Cafe.

His passing was confirmed by his father, Nicholas Sikhonjwa Moyo, who revealed that his son had complained of breathing complications shortly before his collapse.