Actor Siyabonga Thwala reveals he’s born-again

Renowned South African actor Siyabonga Thwala has opened up about a major shift in his spiritual journey, revealing that he is now a born-again Christian.

The Smoke & Mirrors star, best known for his roles in Isibaya and Empini, shared his testimony in a video that quickly gained traction on social media.

In the heartfelt clip, Thwala declared that his transformation began after reading a Christian book that was given to him by a wealthy friend. T

he same book, he says, also moved his wife to tears one day after church. “Jesus entered our home through that book,” Thwala explained, adding that it sparked a life-changing encounter with God.

The actor, who once openly praised the Shembe church for playing a role in his personal life, including the birth of his son, has now publicly distanced himself from ancestral worship.

“There is nothing good about venerating ancestors when you follow Jesus Christ,” he boldly told a gathering, further stating, “I know the amazing things God has done in my life.”

According to Thwala, he is the only member of his family who has been born again.

“I’m not afraid. Jesus is my protector,” he said, making it clear that his faith now rests fully in Christ.

Years ago, Thwala and his wife faced a two-year struggle to conceive. He previously credited the Shembe temple, where his wife once prayed alone, for the miracle of their son.

She reportedly had a dream in which a young girl told her she would soon give birth to a beautiful, light-skinned baby boy, a vision that later came true.

Now, with his focus firmly on his Christian walk, Thwala has shifted his narrative, and many South Africans are paying attention.

Reactions to his declaration have flooded social media, with some praising him for speaking his truth.

One user wrote, “He bit the truth, sir. Spiritual awakening has begun in Jesus’ name,” while another commented in isiXhosa, “You will never go wrong xa wamnkele uYesu.”