Madlela Skhobokhobo is a vibrant and spiritually grounded character, embodying the cultural and traditional values of the Nkayi area. Portrayed by the talented Mothusi Bashimane Ndlovu—a multi-award-winning artist, director, writer, producer, musician, and DJ at Skyz Metro FM—Madlela is a comedic figure who resonates deeply with his audience.
Known affectionately as Dlelas, he is married to the beautiful Qhawekazi Moyo, and together they have four children: Boithabelo, a rising star in the arts known as Basotho; Bontle, their second child; Onalerona, affectionately called Gweja; and their youngest, Kganya.
Madlela attributes his passion for music to his mother, who instilled a tradition of singing and prayer within their family. “My mother was passionate about singing, which greatly influenced my decision to pursue music,” he reflects. “Growing up, she was a lay preacher at the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Zimbabwe (ELCZ), and her love for music left a lasting impact on me.” He fondly recalls being chosen as a choir choreographer in grade five, a pivotal moment that hinted at his artistic destiny.
On the acting front, Dlelas found his calling while attending Manama High School, where he joined a drama club despite having little experience in theatre. His enthusiasm and dedication propelled him to explore acting at a deeper level. “I was taught the ins and outs of theatre at Manama, and it was there that I realized my potential beyond just music,” he says.
Madlela explains how spirituality influences his art, emphasizing that his creativity is guided by a higher calling rather than by the inspiration of fellow artists. “My art is spiritual. I await direction, and I believe this sets my work apart,” he shares. He believes strongly in the importance of cultural roots, stating, “If we ignore our traditions, we face numerous challenges. We are losing touch with our identity.”
He highlights the necessity of reconnecting with African spiritual beliefs, referring to what he calls iZithunywa. “If we lose our connection with our spiritual guides, we become lost. Africa lacks direction because we’ve strayed from our roots,” Madlela asserts. He believes that if Africans rediscover their heritage, the continent could become a global leader.
As an artist, he sees himself as a mirror of society, emphasizing the importance of authenticity. “When I represent myself as Madlela Skhobokhobo, I aim to teach others who I am. I remain true to my roots and aspire to inspire others to embrace their African identity.”
Throughout his career, Dlelas has garnered numerous accolades, including:
• 2017: Best Newcomer, Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards
• 2017: Best Actor, Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards
• 2017: Song of the Year, Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards
• 2017: Song of the Year, Skyz Metro FM Awards
• 2016: People’s Choice Award, Zim Achievers Awards
• 2019: Best Tshibilika, Skyz Metro FM Awards
• 2020: Best Tshibilika, Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards
• 2021: Best Tshibilika, Zimbabwe Music Awards
• 2018: Art Recognition, Matabeleland Entertainment, South Africa.
Currently, Madlela serves as a brand ambassador for Altcom Roofing and Ekhaya Takeaways, having previously represented NetOne and Oasis Hardware.
He has released three albums, each containing ten tracks: iDlozi lolaka, Majazana, and Ntikoloshi. His singles include:
• Ama-International (feat. Noluntu J)
• Blue Rose
• Basotho
• Mjox
• Ama Yellow
• Celebrate (feat. Themba Boyoyo Mathe)
• EmaSurbabzin (feat. Hwabaraty)
• Away
• Bajilla
• Umona (feat. Siza Mdlongwa)
Madlela has collaborated with Martin Sibanda on “Bayadideka” and Thembisile on a track by Zhezhingtons. He has also worked on the drama projects Madlela 1, 2, and 3, as well as short films like Silence and Bafo My Blood, all released under his own label, Shilolo Media House. Artists Skhosana, Blue Rose, and Basotho are signed under his label.
Madlela Comes Home is a situational comedy (sitcom) that follows Madlela as he returns to his rural home after being arrested and deported from South Africa, arriving empty-handed. His journey has been challenging, but he finally reaches their home where his sister, Siluzeni, who lives there with her daughter, Madlela’s niece, now seven months pregnant. Siluzeni is also in a relationship with her boyfriend, Kezitho, from Blantyre, Malawi, whom she met in Makokoba. Life is difficult for Madlela, as he has nothing to show for his time in South Africa. Viewers are encouraged to watch the episodes for more insights into his struggles and the unfolding story. Seasons 1 and 2 are available for viewing on Zimbabwe Television Network (ZTN) and on his YouTube channel, Madlela Skhobokhobo TV.
In discussing the Ama International video, Dlelas expresses his commitment to uplifting emerging artists. “This project is dedicated to young creatives, not just those I featured. I want to help them gain recognition,” he explains.
As a proud representative of Matabeleland, Dlelas highlights the wealth of talent in the region. “We have incredible artists who can captivate audiences and create global opportunities. I urge the world to recognize our potential,” he states.
Madlela emphasizes the need for artists to view their work as a professional pursuit. “At this stage, I cannot perform without financial compensation. My art supports my family, and every event I participate in must be financially viable,” he insists.
He critiques the state of the arts industry in Zimbabwe, noting the lack of recognition and funding. “The arts sector needs financial support to thrive. When I produce content for television, I should be compensated in a way that changes lives. We need the government and private sector to invest in the arts because this industry is vital to our culture,” he concludes
