After nearly three decades on air, the SABC has confirmed that the long-running soapie Muvhango will come to an end on 8 August 2025. The show has been one of the most consistent TV shows on SABC2 since it first aired on 7 April 1997.
Produced by Word of Mouth Productions, Muvhango was created by Duma Ndlovu and became known for its storytelling rooted in Tshivenda culture. At the time of its launch, Tshivenda was considered a minority language in mainstream media, and the show played a role in spotlighting a cultural identity that was rarely represented on national television.
Throughout its run, Muvhango explored the balance between traditional values and modern life. The show followed the lives of characters such as Edward, Doobsie, Chief Azwindini, Thandaza, James, Mulalo, and the royal Mukwevho family. Its plots often dealt with themes of family, legacy, leadership, and love.
Over the years, viewers witnessed several defining moments. These included the death of Mashudu Mukwevho and the family conflict that followed, the complex love triangle involving Thandaza, Edward, and Doobsie, and Chief Azwindini’s polygamous marriages. Other major storylines featured the battle for royal leadership between Azwindini and Mulalo, Thandaza’s wedding to Ranthumeng, and Teboho’s dramatic shooting of Thandaza. The character KK also became widely recognised for his eccentric style and personality.
Muvhango creator and Executive Producer Duma Ndlovu says – “Muvhango gave an opportunity to an ignored language that has become one of the most celebrated languages in South Africa now. It has been a privilege and an honour to create moments on Television where the marginalised languages were at the centre of them all.”
Acting Group Executive for Video Entertainment – Lala Tuku adds- “For almost 30 years, Muvhango has been a pillar of SABC2’s programming and a beloved part of South African television history. More than just a drama, Muvhango has been the champion of language, culture, identity and national pride; inspiring, entertaining, educating and uniting audiences across South Africa. As the television landscape continues to evolve, SABC 2 looks forward to ushering in a new era of storytelling, one that builds on this incredible legacy by continuing to reflect the rich tapestry of South African life.”
The final episode of Muvhango will be broadcast on Friday, 8 August 2025, at 21:00 on SABC2.
Gallo Images/City Press/Tebogo Letsie
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