Mzansi Magic preps drama Shaka iLembe


By Content Nigeria reporter
April 28, 2023

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Shaka iLembe

MultiChoice-owned South African entertainment channel Mzansi Magic will premiere epic period drama series Shaka iLembe in June.

Shaka iLembe is set in the 1700s and tells the story of the making of the iconic African king Sgidi kaSenzangakhona, dramatising stories from his early childhood through to adulthood.

The cast includes Nomzamo Mbatha, Lemogang Tsipa, Ntando Zondi, Senzo Radebe, Thembinkosi Mthembu, Wiseman Mncube, Khabonina Qubeka, Dawn Thandeka King, Hope Mbhele, Mondli Makhoba and Sthandiwe Kgoroge.

According to MultiChoice pay TV platform DStv, the South African story sends a powerful message about the value of African creatives reclaiming African narratives.

The platform also stated that communications service provider Telkom is one of the brands that has signed up to support the series and will be the headline sponsor.

Piwe Motshegoa, head of sales, general entertainment at DStv Media Sales, said: “As a pioneering ICT service provider, Telkom has built its success and network capacity by investing deeply in local knowledge, experience and expertise. Shaka iLembe does the same. Both in front of and behind the cameras, it is home-grown talent that is driving this sweeping story that encompasses an entire era of African kings and queens.

“Shaka iLembe is told through a pre-colonial lens, is filmed in isiZulu and was shot entirely on location. It’s a significant achievement and we must thank Telkom, associate sponsors Grant’s Whisky and LottoStar, and tactical sponsors Toyota and Santam for embracing and sharing our vision for what this series will deliver to our viewers.”

The series is executive produced by Nomzamo Mbatha, produced by Bomb Productions and will debut on June 18 at 20.00 on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161).