The Sunday News
Simba Jemwa, Sports Correspondent
POPULAR socialite, radio personality, comedian and bar owner, Babongile Sikhonjwa has declared his interest in the Highlanders vice-chairmanship.
And this time he is serious!
Over the years, Sikhonjwa, a life member at the club since 2007, has hinted at running for one elective post or the other, but has often made these declarations in jest. However, this time around, he has promised Bosso members that he is serious about his candidature.
Bosso is expected to hold elections for the vice-chairmanship and treasurer’s post next year.
“I know most people think I’m joking around, but I promise you this: I am very serious about becoming Highlanders vice-chairman and look forward to the elections,” Sikhonjwa told Sunday Leisure in an exclusive interview.
Sikhonjwa believes his skill set will help him become an effective administrator. He points out at his experience in the entertainment sector as key to the office of the vice-chairman who has oversight of the club’s amenities such as the clubhouse.
“My expertise in entertainment will enable me to manage our entities effectively and profitably, especially the clubhouse. I will also be able to come up with other ventures that can make money for the club,” Sikhonjwa said.
“I also have a huge following of the younger members of our society and I want to tap into this market to boost paid membership within the club. I also have viable and practical plans that will boost entertainment during games.
“In short: my plan is to help Highlanders be exciting and profitable at the same time by bringing fresh ideas that appeal to the younger Highlanders supporters.”
Sikhonjwa also called on the Bosso family to take him and his candidature seriously: “I think they should take me seriously because though I am a comedian and generally a person that loves entertainment, when it comes to business, I am a very serious person. Unfortunately, my ever smiling and ever laughing character gives people the wrong impression about me sometimes, but people who know me know that once I’m serious about something, I see it through.”
Sikhonjwa says he has been a life member since 2007 or at least that is what it says on his card, making him eligible to enter the elections.
The effervescent “Ndebele Rockstar” as he is popularly known believes that the best team in the country must also have the best run entities and facilities in the country.
“We are not Siyinqaba for nothing. We must be Siyinqaba in every aspect. Whether on or off the field,” said the man who comes from Mlowezi (Glassblock Two) in Gwanda District under Chief Mzimuni, Matabeleland South Province.
He is of the Mangena totem.
“I want to work with everyone that wants to see Highlanders win in every aspect, whether old or young. I respect the elders of the club very much and their wisdom and guidance can help a young vice-chairman make sure that the younger Bosso supporters show more interest in the club, especially club affairs,” said Skhonjwa.
“Imagine if we can collect USD1 from each and every supporter each month: how much would our coffers have?
When you also consider the average age of the players, it would be easier for them to relay some of their problems and concerns to someone younger since some modern-day issues that affect them may not be understood by the older members. My idea basically is to have the happiest supporters in the country.”
