Nomzamo Mbatha stuns in traditional Zulu fashion elegance on Shaka iLembe tour

The Citizen

26-05-2025

Nomzamo Mbatha Nxumalo is no stranger to the spotlight, but 2025 is shaping up to be her most radiant year yet.
As the executive producer and lead actress of Shaka iLembe, she's captivating both Mzansi and the world, not just through powerful storytelling, but also with her fashion-forward, proudly Zulu style.
From Cannes to Fourways, Nomzamo is rewriting what it means to be a modern African queen.
Shaka iLembe takes the world stage
Nomzamo Mbatha. Picture: Supplied
South Africa's most expensive TV production to date, Shaka iLembe, is more than a historical drama; it's a cultural masterpiece.
Produced by Bomb! Productions for Mzansi Magic, the series traces the powerful origin story of King Shaka Zulu—one of Africa's most legendary leaders—who revolutionised military tactics with formations that remain influential in military history.
Nomzamo plays Queen Nandi, Shaka's mother, delivering a performance that is as regal as it is emotionally compelling.
But Nomzamo isn't just acting; she's a driving force behind the camera too, serving as executive producer and contributing to the writing. Her passion for authenticity has helped cement the series as a visual love letter to Zulu culture.
Golden girl at Cannes
Nomzamo recently dazzled international audiences at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, where she screened Shaka iLembe and picked up an international award.
She wore a stunning, sculpted golden gown by @luxurybydesignsandton that turned heads on the red carpet. Of the experience, she wrote:
'Incredibly honoured to not only screen SHAKA iLEMBE at Cannes Film Festival in front of a global audience, but to also receive this incredible award.'
It was a moment not just for her, but for South African television and African storytelling as a whole.
From Durban to Jozi: a style tour
Nomzamo Mbatha. Picture: X
Nomzamo's fashion game has been fierce during her nationwide Shaka iLembe promotional tour. Whether she's holding viewer experiences or leading panel discussions, her style is as commanding as her on-screen presence.
In Durban, she wore a mustard dress with intricate rope and tassel detailing, channelling royal energy as she recited her clan names to an adoring crowd.
At Fourways Mall activation in Johannesburg, she opted for a sleek blue bodycon dress with white detailing and earrings to match, reminding fans why she's South Africa's certified body goals.
Picture X
ALSO READ: Siya Kolisi gets down in Peru: Minister of Enjoyment celebrates best friend's wedding
Tradition meets trend
Nomzamo Mbatha , Picture X
The pièce de résistance?
A breathtaking red traditional Zulu outfit stole the show.
The ensemble, a top and skirt accented with white beads, was brought to life with a bold beaded headpiece and playful pink sneakers.
It was the perfect nod to her character, Queen Nandi, and a powerful statement on keeping heritage alive.
She also stunned in a deconstructed peplum-style top paired with dark jeans and six-inch leopard print heels, blending tradition with the trend in effortless fashion.
Nomzamo Mbatha, Picture Tik Tok
A Queen on and off the screen
When she's not dazzling on red carpets or screens, Nomzamo is busy changing lives. As a UN Goodwill Ambassador and philanthropist, she's been actively involved in education initiatives and building schools in her province of KwaZulu-Natal.
She's also the face of a major cosmetics brand, Neutrogena, balancing humanitarian work, acting, and fashion with a grace that echoes through every appearance
ALSO READ: Eben and Anlia Etzebeth expecting baby number two: 'Our little wildflower'
More than a TV show
#fyp ♬ Isaka (6am) – Ciza & Jazzworx & Thukuthela @omegaoriginalza The Omega team had the incredible honor of visiting Gateway Theatre of Shopping to meet the talented cast of Shaka iLembe. As a token of appreciation, we gifted them with a special selection of sandals — a small gesture for the giants who bring our stories to life! @Thembinkosi Mthembu @Wiseman Mncube @Nomzamo Mbatha @Lemogang Lemo Tsipa @Shaka iLembe Mzansi #shakailembe
With co-stars like Thembinkosi Mthembu (Dingiswayo), Lemogang Tsipa (Shaka), Dawn Thandeka King (Mkabayi), and Mondli Makhoba, Shaka iLembe is a show built on talent and cultural reverence. Together, the cast and crew are not just making entertainment, they're making history.
In Nomzamo's words and wardrobe, in her presence and pride, Shaka iLembe continues to celebrate the richness of Zulu identity, one scene, one outfit, and one heartfelt moment at a time.