By Phumzile Ndlovu
MBABANE – Authentic, powerful, and proudly Eswatini groomed —Mawuena Khumalo brings the siSwati language to life in SABC1’s Amalanga Awafani, marking a milestone moment for both her career and Eswatini’s creative scene.
Talented performer Eswatini-groomed actress Mawuena Khumalo has landed her first-ever siSwati-speaking role in the SABC1 telenovela Amalanga Awafani, a proud milestone that celebrates the Kingdom’s growing influence in international entertainment. Notably, she speaks siSwati, bringing authenticity to her role. With a passion for acting, Mawuena encourages others to pursue their dreams. “Success shows Eswatini and Swati speakers that these roles are within reach!
The series premiered in April 2025 and airs weeknights at 6:30 PM on SABC1 (channel 191on DSTV). Translating to “Days Are Not the Same,” Amalanga Awafani explores the dramatic twists that unfold when twins Sabelo and Thembi Gumede discover a winning lottery ticket. As their lives spiral into complexity, viewers are taken on a gripping journey through themes of wealth, youth ambition, and family dynamics. Mawuena stars as Sindiswa, a character who speaks siSwati—a rare and powerful moment of representation for Swati-speaking audiences.
“It’s my first Swati-speaking role, and I’m deeply honoured,” she says. “I’d love for more emaSwati to tune in and support. Our stories deserve to be seen and heard.”
Though now based in Durban, Mawuena’s journey was shaped in Eswatini. She studied at St. Mark’s High School and spent her formative years between Eswatini and South Africa. Her academic journey reflects her dedication to the arts: she trained in Fine Arts at Ginyard International Co. (2012), acting at Actor Academy (2013.
Her acting career began in 2023 with a breakout role as Nelisiwe in the ETV medical drama Durban Gen. She then appeared in Sibongile and The Dlamini’s that airs on Mzansi Wethu DSTV Channel 163 (Monday to Wednesday at 6.30PM) and is currently set to lead in the upcoming feature film Break Free, directed by Bonie Sithebe, slated for release later this year.
Mawuena’s role in Amalanga Awafani is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a reflection of Eswatini’s artistic rise. Following the path paved by talents like Amanda du-Pont and Nothando Hlophe, Mawuena is showcasing that Swati excellence can—and does—thrive internationally.
“We have so much untapped talent back home,” she says. “It’s time to shine a light on Eswatini’s artists—not just locally, but globally.”
With Amalanga Awafani airing on a major South African network and streaming clips circulating widely online, Mawuena offers something rare: authentic siSwati representation in a mainstream, prime-time TV slot.
“Let’s show broadcasters that there’s a demand for Swati stories,” she adds.
Catch Mawuena Khumalo as Sindiswa on Amalanga Awafani, Monday to Friday at 6:30 PM on SABC1.
Follow her journey and support Swati talent:
Facebook: Mawuena Khumalo
Instagram: @mawuenak
(Courtesy Pics)
