BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
EZULWINI- In a move that signals a bold new chapter for the local creative economy, the nation’s airwaves are set to be transformed.
Following the overwhelming success of its cinema release and international festival run, “Baka Ngwane: The Birth of a Nation” is officially transitioning to the small screen as a full-scale television series.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Executive Producer, Senator Pholile Shakantu, during a high-profile stakeholder gathering on December 18, 2025 at Sharma House. She confirmed that the series is slated to premiere in 2026 on Eswatini TV. This first season will consist of 12 gripping episodes, allowing the narrative to delve far deeper into the historical intricacies, royal lineage, and the relentless journey of the Nguni people than a single film ever could.
The journey to this moment has been one of immense dedication and intellectual labor. Shakantu shared that the project began in 2018 as a mission to protect the Swazi identity from external misconceptions. Through years of rigorous research into land concessions and the historic legal battles of King Sobhuza, the production team worked to uncover truths often suppressed in colonial narratives. This project was not just about filming; it was about defending the country’s sovereignty through facts and storytelling.
This achievement is a testament to the tireless “blood, sweat, and tears” of the entire production crew. While the lead actors like Samkelo Dlamini (King Matalatala), Mandisa Mamba (Queen Qoshile), and Lawrence Mhlanga bring the story to life on screen, an army of behind-the-scenes professionals worked around the clock to meet international “first-world” standards. From the vision of Producer Sibusiso “Sparks” Dlamini and Director Shaft Moropane, to the meticulous work of researchers Sifiso J. Dlamini and Maqhawe Bhembe, every frame of this 12-episode series represents a labor of love for Eswatini.
The production’s success also belongs to the nation. Over 600 local extras from various chiefdoms participated, making this a truly communal effort. The support from the traditional authorities, local communities, and the media has been the backbone of this project. As Minister of ICT Savannah Maziya and Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima noted, this series is more than entertainment—it is a national cultural asset and a documentation of history that belongs to every Swazi citizen.
As the series prepares to air on Eswatini TV, it stands as a tribute to the sacrifices of our ancestors and the hard work of the modern-day creatives who refused to let our stories be forgotten. The nation is invited to watch this masterpiece in 2026 and take pride in a story that is truly our own.
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