Bulawayo stands still. The laughter has dimmed, the music has softened, and the city’s heartbeat has slowed as it bids farewell to one of its most beloved sons, Babongile “Babo” Sikhonjwa. Known affectionately by many names, Babo, Topi, Mgabe, Pure Ndebele, The Ndebele Rockstar, Murifithi, King Solomon Wegagasi, he was a man of many titles but one undeniable legacy: a gallant son of the soil.

Babo passed away suddenly in the early hours of the morning, leaving a void that words struggle to fill. Reports suggest he was with friends, laughing, playing cards, just being Babo, when he drew his final breath. He was rushed to hospital, but it was too late. His larger-than-life spirit had already ascended beyond the sky.

He was 49 years old.

On 27 September, the city and the nation came together to lay him to rest in his ancestral home in Mlowezi Village, Gwanda. The Government of Zimbabwe accorded him a State-Assisted Funeral, a fitting honour for a man who gave his all to his people, his culture, and his craft. His final journey was marked by a solemn convoy that traced the path of his life, through Richmond, Barbourfields, Mzilikazi, Highlanders Club, Skyz Metro FM, and Red Café, every stop a chapter in his story.

At every corner, crowds gathered, singing, clapping, weeping, celebrating the life of a man who had touched them all.

To describe Babongile merely as a radio host, MC, or entertainer would be an understatement. He was a cultural torchbearer, a creative catalyst, and a friend of the people. From his days on Skyz Metro FM, where his voice became the soundtrack to many mornings, to his ventures in nightlife and arts, Babo embodied the rhythm and soul of Bulawayo.

He had a gift, the ability to make every person feel seen, valued, and loved. Whether through a joke, a handshake, or a heartfelt conversation, he built bridges where others saw walls. He mentored countless artists, supported upcoming creatives, and helped build the foundation of a vibrant cultural movement in the City of Kings.

As DJ Fresh of South Africa recalled, “He was patient, genuine, and passionate. He respected the craft, and he always put others before himself.”

Almost everyone has a Babongile story, tales of his humour, his kindness, his stubborn love for people, his mischief, and his faith. He lived boldly, laughed loudly, and loved deeply. Even in death, he lies with a gentle smile, as if reminding us to celebrate, not mourn.

His close friend and “twin” Mafa shared a touching tribute:

“We grew up not as uncle and nephew, but as brothers. We shared mischief, scars, and countless adventures. You stood beside me in every moment, even at my wedding with your cheeky jokes. Now, I will carry your laughter forever.”

His father, Nicholas Sikhonjwa Moyo, and his children spoke of a man whose joy was infectious and whose spirit will live on through every song, every story, and every dream he inspired.

The farewell procession felt like a pilgrimage, a city retracing the footprints of its fallen star. The hearse stopped at places he loved, managed, and built; Richmond Recreational Club, Highlanders Club, Skyz Metro FM, and finally, Bulawayo Amphitheatre, where hundreds gathered for one last celebration.

Spinners spun their wheels in tribute. Choirs sang. Friends shared stories. Even the streets whispered his name. He was escorted past the statue of his hero, Father Zimbabwe, Dr Joshua Nkomo, in a symbolic final salute, the Ndebele Rockstar returning home.

In Mlowezi, under the open skies of Gwanda, Babongile Sikhonjwa was laid to rest. Surrounded by mountains, music, and memories, he returned to the soil that raised him, a son of the land, now part of its eternal story. He leaves behind a legacy that cannot be buried, a generation of artists he nurtured, a city he entertained, and a culture he proudly carried. As his son, Qobolwakhe Sikhonjwa, said,

“Knowing my father, he would have wanted us to celebrate instead of being sad. I will always love you, Mdala, forever.”

Rest well, Murifithi.
Dance with the angels, Ndebele Rockstar.
Your laughter still echoes in the streets.
Your music still plays in our hearts.
Your spirit still walks among us.
Bulawayo will never forget you.
Zimbabwe will never forget you.
The world will never forget you.