BY NOSIPHO MABUZA
ZOMBODZE- Inspired by daily life, his humour captures the heart of Eswatini culture.
For Sewakhile Dlamini, comedy is more than just punchlines, it’s a purpose. The rising Eswatini-based comedian, known for his hilarious and relatable video skits, says his journey into comedy began long before the cameras rolled.
“I’ve always been drawn to making people laugh,” he says. “From school to community gatherings, even in kombis, making people smile just felt natural.” What started off as playful skits shared with friends quickly evolved into a passion project rooted in storytelling, culture, and connection.
Dlamini credits both local and international influences for shaping his unique comedic voice. “Locally, I’ve always admired grassroots comedians, those who find gold in the simplicity of life,” he says. “Internationally, Trevor Noah has definitely influenced how I structure material. His blend of cultural insight with humour really resonates with me, even though his stand-up style is still something I’m working to perfect.”
A proud son of Eswatini, Dlamini uses the everyday experiences of emaSwati as the core of his content. From street gossip to kombi chaos, his material is grounded in what he calls “raw, unfiltered life.”
“The stories from our grandparents, the aunties, the church moments, they’re all part of who we are. I see comedy as a way of documenting our culture,” he explains.
As his audience grows beyond local borders, Dlamini is intentional about making his content accessible while remaining authentic. “It’s about striking a balance,” he says. “I stay true to my Siswati roots, but I also add subtitles or create scenes that translate across cultures. The themes I explore, family, hustle, misunderstandings, are things anyone can relate to.”
But behind all the laughs lies a deeper purpose. “I want people to feel seen,” Dlamini reflects. “Whether you’re from Mbabane or emakhaya kaPhunga, I hope you find a piece of yourself in my stories. If I can make someone smile through a tough day, then I’ve done my job.”
In a world often overwhelmed by noise and negativity, Sewakhile Dlamini offers a refreshing voice that celebrates Eswatini’s stories, with humour, heart, and authenticity.
(Courtesy Pics)
