Actor Siyabonga Thwala opens up about two-year struggle to have a child

Siyabonga Thwala, best known for his commanding on-screen presence as Mpiyakhe Zungu in the hit drama series Isibaya, has opened up about a deeply personal struggle—his and his wife’s two-year battle to conceive a child.

While Thwala is often seen portraying strong and fearless characters, his real-life journey was marked by moments of uncertainty, faith, and perseverance. In a surprising revelation, he shared how spiritual intervention played a crucial role in their journey to parenthood.

Seeking Divine Help at Emoyeni Temple

After months of disappointment and heartbreak, Thwala’s wife decided to take matters into her own hands. Without informing him, she visited Emoyeni Temple, a division of the Shembe Nazareth Church, to pray for a child.

That night, she had a powerful dream. In it, a prophet appeared, sending a young girl to deliver a message:

“Tshena lo sisi ukuthi angakhathazeki, uzuthola ingane yomfana emhlophe.”

This translates to:

“Do not worry; you will soon have a beautiful, light-skinned baby boy.”

The dream left her feeling hopeful, and shortly after, she became pregnant. True to the prophecy, she gave birth to a healthy baby boy who matched the description she had been given in the dream.

Faith and Gratitude

For Thwala, the experience was nothing short of a miracle. He shared how, upon his son’s birth, he felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude.

“Ngavele ngayobonga, angibuzanga lutho.”

This translates to:

“I simply went to church to thank God without questioning anything.”

His faith in divine intervention had been strengthened, and he embraced the belief that their struggles had a greater purpose.

Thwala’s Journey Beyond the Screen

While many know Siyabonga Thwala for his iconic role in Isibaya—which aired on Mzansi Magic until its cancellation in 2021—his personal struggles remained private for many years.

His experience adds a new layer of depth to his public persona, proving that even those who play the strongest characters on screen have their own battles to fight in real life.

Beyond Isibaya, Thwala has showcased his acting talent in other major South African television shows, including:

• Generations

• Scandal!

• Muvhango

• Rhythm City

His remarkable career has solidified his place as one of Mzansi’s most respected actors.

Defending His Faith Amid Criticism

While Thwala’s story has touched many hearts, it has also sparked conversations about his affiliation with the Shembe Nazareth Church. The religious movement, though widely followed, has faced scrutiny and misconceptions, with some critics claiming it engages in idol worship.

In response to these criticisms, Thwala stood firm in his beliefs, stating:

“Abanye abantu bacabanga ukuthi ngihlanya mangibatshena kodwa iqiniso.”

This translates to:

“Some people think I am crazy, but the testimonies we share are real and not fabricated.”

His commitment to his faith remains unshaken, and he believes that his personal experience is proof of the power of spiritual intervention.

A Story of Hope and Perseverance

Siyabonga Thwala’s journey resonates with many couples who face fertility struggles. His story serves as a reminder that patience, faith, and perseverance can lead to life-changing moments.

For Thwala and his wife, the two-year struggle was a test of faith, but in the end, their prayers were answered.

His testimony continues to inspire many, proving that miracles do happen—sometimes, they just require a little faith, hope, and divine intervention.