Siyabonga Thwala opens up about struggle to have a child
Isibaya star Siyabonga Thwala revealed his 2-year struggle to have a child until spiritual guidance fulfilled a prophecy of a light-skinned baby boy.
It may surprise fans that Siyabonga Thwala, known for his commanding on-screen presence as Mpiyakhe Zungu in Isibaya, has opened up about his and his wife’s two-year struggle to have a child. After months of disappointment, his wife sought spiritual intervention at Emoyeni Temple, a division of the Shembe Nazareth Church, to pray for a child.
A PROPHECY OF A LIGHT-SKINNED BABY BOY
Without informing Thwala, his wife spent the day at the temple, praying for a child. The next morning, she recalled a dream in which a prophet sent a young girl to deliver a message: “Tshena lo sisi ukuthi angakhathazeki, uzuthola ingane yomfana emhlophe”—translated as, “Do not worry; you will soon have a beautiful, light-skinned baby boy.”
Shortly after, she became pregnant. Siyabonga Thwala and his wife welcomed a son who matched the dream’s description. Today, their son is healthy and thriving.
FROM ISIBAYA STAR TO SPIRITUAL TESTIMONY
Thwala’s revelation adds depth to his public image. While he played a powerful, fearless character in Isibaya – a popular drama series that aired on Mzansi Magic until its cancellation in 2021 – behind the scenes, he faced personal struggles. At a Shembe Church conference, Thwala shared how faith guided him through this difficult time. Upon his son’s birth, he expressed gratitude, saying, “Ngavele ngayobonga, angibuzanga lutho” – “I simply went to church to thank God without questioning anything.”
ADDRESSING SHEMBE CHURCH CONTROVERSY
Thwala also responded to criticisms of the Shembe Nazareth Church, which some critics view as engaging in idol worship. He defended his faith, stating, “Abanye abantu bacabanga ukuthi ngihlanya mangibatshena kodwa iqiniso”,translated as “Some people think I am crazy, but the testimonies we share are real and not fabricated.”
While the church has faced scrutiny, it remains influential in South Africa, with many followers finding spiritual guidance and healing through its teachings.
SIYABONGA THWALA: THE MAN BEYOND THE SCREEN
Beyond Isibaya, Thwala has starred in Generations, Scandal!, Muvhango, and Rhythm City.
Thwala’s story is one of faith, resilience, and belief in spiritual guidance. His journey resonates with many couples facing similar struggles, reminding them that hope and patience can lead to life-changing moments.
