BY NOMSA DLAMINI
NHLANGANO – Talented filmmaker Mxolisi “DMXO” Mamba has captivated audiences with the release of his seven-episode local film series “Inkhosana” (The Prince).
Set in Sahhokwana near Jericho High School, the film weaves a tale of love, tradition, and royal responsibility that has quickly resonated with viewers across Eswatini and beyond.
The film follows the journey of a young prince navigating the complexities of royal duty while pursuing his heart’s desire. As the protagonist grapples with familial expectations and genuine love, viewers embark on an emotional journey that reflects contemporary challenges while honouring age-old traditions. Mamba explains, “I wanted to create something that speaks to who we are as EmaSwati our stories, our language, our attire, and our traditions deserve to be showcased on screen in ways that honour their beauty and complexity.”
Mamba is not only an accomplished director and , but also an Afro Pop artist. He was nominated for the Top 10 Best Artist of the Year in 2023 and began his journey in filmmaking while in Form 2 at Nkhungwini High School.
The production of “Inkhosana” involved 25 local actors and crew members. The film showcases traditional Siswati attire, including meticulously crafted royal regalia designed in consultation with cultural experts to ensure authenticity. Scenes featuring customary ceremonies and traditional dances have received particular praise for their attention to detail.
The film’s dialogue is entirely in siSwati, reflecting Mamba’s commitment to preserving language as a cultural cornerstone. While subtitles are available for international viewers, local audiences have embraced the opportunity to see their mother tongue centred in a professional production.
Shot primarily in rural locations around the Shiselweni region, “Inkhosana” serves as a visual tribute to Eswatini’s stunning landscapes. Breath-taking shots of rolling hills and traditional homesteads provide an authentic setting, contrasting sharply with the urban backdrops commonly seen in mainstream African cinema.
The early reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with the first two episodes garnering 28,000 views on YouTube within days of their release. Social media has buzzed with viewers praising both the storytelling and the technical quality of the production, which surpasses many previous locally-produced films despite working with limited resources.
Mamba shared some of the challenges faced during filming, stating, “We faced many challenges during filming, sometimes when we need to upload our project, we face delays due to the large file size, which stresses us out and prompts our followers to complain about the wait for the next episode.” He also mentioned limitations in clothing options, with many team members borrowing outfits, and the challenges posed by younger team members being busy with school, causing further delays in releasing episodes.
Episodes of “Inkhosana” are being released monthly on the Swazi Movie Inkhosana YouTube channel.
“Inkhosana” represents a profound celebration of Swazi culture through cinema, showcasing the beauty of traditional stories while addressing contemporary themes. Mxolisi “DMXO” Mamba’s dedication to authenticity and storytelling is paving the way for a bright future in Swazi film. Don’t miss out on this captivating series!
