Babongile Sikhonjwa, who died in Bulawayo on Sunday, 21 September 2025, at the age of 49, has been awarded a state-assisted funeral.
The formal announcement was delivered during a prayer service at the Sikhonjwa family home in the Richmond suburb. It was made by Judith Ncube, Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution. Minister Ncube conveyed a message of condolence from the highest office, reading directly from a letter sent by the Zanu–PF Secretary General, Advocate Jacob Mudenda.
The letter stated,
“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.”
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Babongile Sikhonjwa Given A State-Assisted Funeral
Minister Ncube elaborated on the President’s decision, portraying Sikhonjwa as a figure whose life’s work transcended entertainment. She emphasised that the honour was a collective expression of grief from the nation for a man who dedicated his life to inspiring others.
“The President saw it appropriate to express our collective grief following the passing of Babongile,” Minister Ncube told the gathered mourners. She further described the late star as “a proud son of Bulawayo whose life was devoted to uplifting the city’s arts and cultural landscape.” She added, “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.”
To support the funeral logistics, the Government has contributed a sum of US$10,000. Minister Ncube confirmed that a director from her office has been assigned to work directly with the family to manage the arrangements and associated costs.
Family Shows Gratitude for National Support
The gesture was met with profound gratitude from Sikhonjwa’s father, Nicholas Sikhonjwa Moyo, who spoke on behalf of the family. He acknowledged that the State’s intervention would alleviate considerable logistical pressures. A large number of mourners are expected to pay their final respects to his son.
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“We were facing logistical challenges, especially at the rural home, because Sikhonjwa was a people’s person, and we are expecting many mourners,” Mr Moyo explained. “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.”
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The post Zimbabwe Pays Tribute to Media Personality Babongile Sikhonjwa with State-Assisted Funeral appeared first on iHarare News.
