BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
EZULWINI – Local; comedians Gogo Eswatini and S’lwane are set to unveil their latest theatrical production, Khuluma, at the inaugural Mfowethu uGrend men’s mental health gathering at Happy Valley Hotel this Saturday.
The 18-minute stage production, themed around men’s mental health and depression, promises to be one of the event’s biggest highlights as the duo use theatre to spark conversations around emotional wellbeing and healing among men.
Khuluma boasts a stellar cast featuring Gogo Eswatini, S’lwane, Hembe and one of Eswatini’s most celebrated actresses, Setsabile Masina. The production follows the emotional journey of a troubled family man battling to hold his life together while carrying the weight of overwhelming personal struggles. Organisers have kept much of the storyline under wraps, with patrons of the event set to enjoy its exclusive premiere.
The production also marks S’lwane’s long-awaited return to the stage after his memorable performance as Lusekwane in producer Khanyiso Crowder’s acclaimed adaptation of the popular novel Umjingi Udliwa Yinhlitiyo. Hembe, meanwhile, has continued to sharpen his craft through appearances in several stage productions and television commercials.
For Gogo Eswatini, Khuluma represents a significant milestone, marking his first major acting role despite already being a familiar face in the country’s creative industry.
Speaking ahead of the premiere, S’lwane said the team deliberately chose theatre as a vehicle to deliver the event’s message.””We believe the onus is on us to use every creative gift and resource at our disposal to communicate the purpose of this gathering—to educate and empower our brothers on issues surrounding mental health. By bringing together some of Eswatini’s finest actors, we believe the message will resonate even more deeply. We encourage everyone to secure their tickets early and join us at Happy Valley Hotel this Saturday,” he said.
Gogo Eswatini promised audiences an unforgettable performance.
“BoSwane, all I can say is that you’re in for a treat. If you thought S’lwane was done after Umjingi, you’re in for a surprise. If you think Hembe is just… well, come to Happy Valley on Saturday. And if you believe Gogo being Gogo is all there is to me, come and meet another side of me as we share this production for the healing of Eswatini’s brothers, sons and fathers. The less said about Setsabile’s remarkable interpretation of her role, the better. We believe this play, and the event as a whole, will leave everyone with something meaningful to reflect on and contribute to a healthier Eswatini,” he said.
Held under the theme “Tears – Umjuluko weMphilo,” Mfowethu uGrend seeks to create a safe space for men to openly discuss mental health while promoting healing through dialogue, lived experiences and the arts.
Written by Gogo Eswatini and S’lwane, Khuluma is expected to challenge societal perceptions surrounding masculinity while encouraging men to speak out rather than suffer in silence.
