BY NELIWE NGUBANE (INTERN)
MBABANE-As Eswatini’s highly anticipated telenovela Ekhaya officially makes its debut on SABC 1, viewers are preparing to meet one of the drama’s most compelling characters. Mandla Manyatsi, a sharp-witted lawyer and son of a chief who returns home, only to find himself navigating family expectations, community dynamics and life-changing secrets.
The character is portrayed by talented actor Thembinkosi Mthethwa, better known to many as Mandela Manyatsi, who shares insights into the journey behind one of the show’s leading roles.
The interview comes at a pivotal moment as Ekhaya reaches audiences across Southern Africa through SABC 1’s prime-time Sunday slot, creating a major platform for Eswatini storytelling.
Reflecting on his most memorable moment during production, Mthethwa said the experience went beyond acting.
“To see us as a team creating something during such a difficult period was special. We were filming around 2018, 2019 and 2020 during the COVID-19 period. There were hardships here and there, but everyone shared the same vision. The project was also commissioned by Eswatini TV, which made it even more meaningful.”
For Mthethwa, the impact of Ekhaya extends far beyond the screen.
“Not just Ekhaya alone, but everything you do grows you. We learn every day in life. This production taught me a lot. I’m not the same person after Ekhaya. It teaches life lessons as well.”
Asked why audiences should tune in every Sunday, the actor described the telenovela as a refreshing and authentic African story.
“It’s an amazing story, an authentic story and an original story. It’s entertainment, but it’s also educational. People will learn a lot from the different characters. It takes viewers back home, back to the community and into some family secrets. Many people will probably see themselves or someone they know in the characters.”
The significance of having Ekhaya broadcast on SABC 1 is not lost on the actor.
“SABC is one of the leading channels in Southern Africa. For them to recognise our work and place it on prime time, just after the news on Sundays, is huge. It’s the right platform not only for the industry but for the country as a whole.”
He added that the show serves as a cultural ambassador for Eswatini.
“Viewers will see the beautiful scenery of Eswatini and hear our Siswati language. That’s important because it benefits tourism and shows people that we have a thriving creative industry in the country.”
While he remained careful not to reveal major plot details, Mthethwa offered a glimpse into Mandla Manyatsi’s personality.
“I won’t give away much, but he’s someone who stands for the truth. He doesn’t back off easily and stands firmly in what he believes in. He’s a grounded family man who experiences both ups and downs.”
As Ekhaya begins its journey into living rooms across the region, Mandla Manyatsi appears set to become one of the show’s standout figures — a man torn between duty, family, tradition and truth.
With powerful storytelling, local authenticity and a cast determined to showcase Eswatini’s talent, Ekhaya is shaping up to be more than just another television drama. It is a celebration of Eswatini’s stories, culture and creative potential on one of Southern Africa’s biggest stages.
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(Courtesy Pic)
