Latest news with #Shaka
IOL News
03-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
KwaZulu-Natal businessman Manzini Zungu collaborates with UJ on creative storytelling projects
KwaZulu-Natal businessman Manzini Zungu partners with University of Johannessburg to promote African storytelling. Image: Supplied A prominent KwaZulu-Natal businessman Manzini Zungu has partnered with University of Johannesburg (UJ) for creative work, particularly storytelling projects. Zungu, a relative of Amazulu Football Club owner, Sandile Zungu, owns several Spar retail shops under his company Spar Pacina Retail in KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape, however, he has spread his wings and ventured into the creative industry. He has partnered with UJ, producing storytelling projects for university students. Zungu described his research and collaboration with the university as a landmark in his efforts to nurture African storytelling. He said his collaboration with UJ's Faculty of Humanities aims to unearth and develop young storytellers through creative activism and Afrocentric narratives. Led by Professor Suzy Graham, the project includes literature initiatives based on the uShaka Inkosi Yamakhosi film which Zungu produced in 2021, fostering new creative perspectives among the university students. The film is on Netflix. 'The partnership emphasises creativity as a 21st-century workforce skill, with UJ students engaging in projects that blend storytelling with educational activism,' said Zungu. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading He has published his first book Shaka Inkosi yamaKhosi (Shaka, the king of kings) which is based on extracts of his film. He has also devised several marketing strategies for McDonald's restaurants. Zungu is also a UJ Research Associate and has partnered with the Salvation Army church in Soweto where he serves as musical director of the Soweto Central Chorus. Through his Manzini Zungu Foundation, the businessman also supports cultural preservation through projects like uShaka Inkosi Yamakhosi, ensuring African stories reach global audiences. The foundation was established in 2018. The foundation also supports rural communities especially in remote areas of Mthatha and Ngqeleni in the Eastern Cape. Zungu shot into prominence when he scored a lucrative schools nutrition tender in KwaZulu-Natal in 2023 but later pulled out after a protracted battle with the provincial education department.
IOL News
24-06-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Reclaiming the true meaning of South Africa's public holidays
Nco Dube a political economist, businessman, and social commentator. Image: Supplied South Africa's public holidays are more than just days off work or school; they are markers of our nation's complex and often painful history. Since 1994, many holidays have been renamed as part of the country's reconciliation process, with the intent to foster unity and inclusivity. However, this well-meaning approach has, in some cases, diluted the original significance of these days, a significance deeply rooted in the struggles, identities, and histories of specific communities. It is time to critically reconsider whether some of these holidays should revert to their original names and meanings, not to sow division but to honour the full truth of our past. Beyond Heritage Day: A Broader Reflection on Renamed Holidays Heritage Day's transformation from Shaka Day into a celebration of diverse cultures is a prime example. While embracing South Africa's cultural plurality is important, restoring Heritage Day's focus on traditional leadership and heroic figures such as Shaka, Sekhukhune, Modjadji, and other warrior kings from various tribes would reaffirm the historical pride and resistance of black South Africans. These leaders symbolise resilience and identity that were systematically undermined during colonialism and apartheid. But the argument extends far beyond Heritage Day alone. Consider the renaming of Sharpeville Day to Human Rights Day, or Soweto Day to Youth Day. The original names directly referenced specific, pivotal events in the anti-apartheid struggle, events that shaped the national consciousness and the fight for freedom. By broadening these commemorations, the sharp, focused remembrance of those sacrifices risks being lost. Similarly, the Day of Reconciliation, formerly Dingane's Day or Day of the Vow, seeks to balance conflicting histories but sometimes glosses over the brutal realities of colonial conquest and apartheid oppression. The Unequal Burden of Reconciliation A critical, often overlooked dimension of this debate is the emotional and historical burden placed on black South Africans. Many feel that in the name of reconciliation, they were expected to make disproportionate concessions, offering forgiveness and embracing a narrative of unity, while those who once oppressed them have largely been spared from confronting the full weight of their actions. The renaming and reframing of holidays can serve as a form of historical cushioning for former oppressors, allowing them to avoid facing uncomfortable truths about their role in systemic subjugation. This dynamic creates an imbalance: black communities, who endured generations of oppression, are called upon to move forward and unify, yet the former oppressors are often shielded from the discomfort of genuine reckoning. The broad, sanitised names of holidays sometimes enable a collective forgetting or minimising of apartheid's harsh realities, undermining the very justice and acknowledgement that true reconciliation requires. Honouring History Through Honest Commemoration Restoring original holiday names and meanings is not about nostalgia or exclusion; it is about truth-telling and respect. It is about ensuring that the sacrifices of those who fought against oppression are remembered with the specificity and gravity they deserve. It is about acknowledging the distinct histories of South Africa's diverse peoples without erasing or diluting them in the name of unity. For example, reclaiming the Dingane's Day (Day of the Vow) original context alongside its current role as Day of Reconciliation would allow South Africans to engage honestly with the complex history of the Voortrekkers and Zulu peoples, recognising both conflict and the ongoing journey toward unity. Similarly, reviving Sharpeville Day as a stark reminder of police brutality and resistance would deepen the meaning of Human Rights Day.
IOL News
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
5 reasons to watch Shaka iLembe season 2
Image: Supplied The story of a king and the birth of an empire continues. Shaka iLembe returned to Mzansi Magic on DStv channel 161 on Sunday 15 June at 8pm, moving beyond the ascent of a warrior to the complex reign of a monarch. Season 2 finds Shaka (played by Lemogang Tsipa) at the threshold of power, where the fight for the throne becomes a perilous struggle to keep it, and the vision for a unified nation is threatened by enemies both seen and unseen. This new season expands upon the foundational conflicts and character arcs, offering a portrait of a leader and his kingdom at a turning point. Here are 5 key reasons that make the return of Shaka iLembe essential viewing. 1. The rise of a legend reaches new heights Season 2 brings us back to the moment Shaka returns to the Zulu to claim his rightful place as king, only to step into a snake pit of danger. Hidden between the smiling faces are rivals plotting his death. He has to turn his people around to support him, but how? Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading 2. Love, loyalty and ruthless betrayal Meet the woman who captures Shaka's heart, but will he let her in? Watch as alliances are tested. From Queen Nandi's (played by Nomzamo Mbatha) brilliant strategies to Mkabayi's (played by Dawn Thandeka King) secret spy network that watches everything from the shadows. Image: Supplied 3. Shaka's inner world unfolds Season 2 dives into his spiritual journey to become king. The journey is accompanied by his dreams, visions, and sacrifices, including the bold decision not to marry. We explore the mind and soul of a man driven by destiny but haunted by loss. 4. Power plays and crumbling alliances Return to King Dingiswayo's (played by Thembinkosi Mthembu) isigodlo as he faces betrayal from those closest to him. See him cross paths with Zwide (played by Wiseman Mncube) and his sons, as the brutal power struggle between kingdoms explodes into war, culminating in the battle that brings the mighty Ndwandwe tribe to their knees. 5. Epic cinematic storytelling like never before Watch the sweeping landscapes, large-scale battles, and a cast of unforgettable characters make this season the most cinematic yet. Shaka iLembe Season 2 is not just a historical drama, it's a full-scale, emotionally charged epic. Image: Supplied The season ahead is not just about the making of a legend, but the weight of it. It explores the sacrifices required for unity, the personal cost of power, and the enduring spirit of a people forging their legacy. It is a profound South African story, told with the scale and depth it has always deserved. Don't miss the next chapter of Shaka iLembe every Sunday at 8pm only on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161) and DStv Stream. Season 2 is also available for viewing on Catch Up. Shaka iLembe season 2 is proudly sponsored by headline partner Telkom, associate partners Knorrox, Diageo and tactical partners Santam, Amka, Toyota, Spur, and Gordon's Gin. For more information, visit the Shaka iLembe show page or join in the conversation by using #ShakaiLembeS2 on our social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, X, and Tik Tok.
TimesLIVE
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Power plays and peril: here's why ‘Shaka iLembe' S2 is essential viewing
The gripping story of Shaka Zulu and the birth of this iconic king's great empire continues as the second season of the award-winning drama Shaka iLembe returns to Mzansi Magic. Inspired by history, season 2 sees Shaka (Lemogang Tsipa) moving beyond the ascent of a warrior to the complex reign of a monarch. He's at the threshold of power, where the fight for the throne becomes a perilous struggle to keep it, and the vision for a unified nation is threatened by enemies both seen and unseen. This new season expands on the foundational conflicts and character arcs, offering a portrait of a leader and his kingdom at a turning point. Here are five reasons Shaka iLembe season 2 is essential viewing: 1. The rise of a legend reaches new heights Season 2 brings us back to the moment Shaka returns to the Zulu to claim his rightful place as king, only to step into a snake pit of danger. Hidden between the smiling faces are rivals plotting his death. He has to turn his people around to support him, but how? 2. Love, loyalty and ruthless betrayal Meet the woman who captures Shaka's heart, but will he let her in? Watch as alliances are tested. From Queen Nandi's (Nomzamo Mbatha) brilliant strategies to Mkabayi's (Dawn Thandeka King) secret spy network that watches everything from the shadows. 3. Shaka's inner world unfolds Season 2 dives into Shaka's spiritual journey to become king. The journey is accompanied by his dreams, visions and sacrifices, including the bold decision not to marry. We explore the mind and soul of a man driven by destiny but haunted by loss. 4. Power plays and crumbling alliances Return to King Dingiswayo's (Thembinkosi Mthembu) isigodlo as he faces betrayal from those closest to him. See him cross paths with Zwide (Wiseman Mncube) and his sons, as the brutal power struggle between kingdoms explodes into war, culminating in the battle that brings the mighty Ndwandwe tribe to their knees. 5. Epic cinematic storytelling like never before Sweeping landscapes, large-scale battles, and a cast of unforgettable characters make this season even more cinematic than the last. Shaka iLembe season 2 is not just a historical drama, it's a full-scale, emotionally charged epic. The season ahead is not just about the making of a legend, but the weight of it. It explores the sacrifices required for unity, the personal cost of power, and the enduring spirit of a people forging their legacy. It is a profound South African story, told with the scale and depth it has always deserved. Don't miss the next chapter of Shaka iLembe Catch fresh episodes of the second season of Shaka iLembe on Sundays at 8pm only on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161) and DStv Stream. Missed an episode? Catch the repeat on Fridays at 9.30pm or view it on Catch Up.
The Citizen
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
5 reasons to watch Shaka iLembe season 2
Come watch the sweeping landscapes, large-scale battles, and a cast of unforgettable characters make this season the most cinematic yet. The story of a king and the birth of an empire continues. Shaka iLembe returns to Mzansi Magic on DStv channel 161 from Sunday 15 June at 8pm, moving beyond the ascent of a warrior to the complex reign of a monarch. Season 2 finds Shaka (Lemogang Tsipa) at the threshold of power, where the fight for the throne becomes a perilous struggle to keep it, and the vision for a unified nation is threatened by enemies both seen and unseen. This new season expands upon the foundational conflicts and character arcs, offering a portrait of a leader and his kingdom at a turning point. Here are 5 key reasons that make the return of Shaka iLembe essential viewing. 1. The rise of a legend reaches new heights Season 2 brings us back to the moment Shaka (Lemogang Tsipa) returns to the Zulu nation to claim his rightful place as king, only to step into a snake pit of danger. Hidden between the smiling faces are rivals plotting his death. He has to turn his people around to support him, but how? 2. Love, loyalty and ruthless betrayal Meet the woman who captures Shaka's (Lemogang Tsipa) heart, but will he let her in? Watch as alliances are tested. From Queen Nandi's (Nomzamo Mbatha) brilliant strategies to Mkabayi's (Dawn Thandeka King) secret spy network that watches everything from the shadows. 3. Shaka's inner world unfolds Season 2 dives into his spiritual journey to become King. The journey is accompanied by his dreams, visions, and sacrifices, including the bold decision not to marry. We explore the mind and soul of a man driven by destiny but haunted by loss. 4. Power plays and crumbling alliances Return to King Dingiswayo's (Thembinkosi Mthembu) isigodlo as he faces betrayal from those closest to him. See him cross paths with Zwide (Wiseman Mncube) and his sons, as the brutal power struggle between kingdoms explodes into war, culminating in the battle that brings the mighty Ndwandwe tribe to their knees. 5. Epic cinematic storytelling like never before Come watch the sweeping landscapes, large-scale battles, and a cast of unforgettable characters make this season the most cinematic yet. Shaka iLembe Season 2 is not just a historical drama; it's a full-scale, emotionally charged epic. The season ahead is not just about the making of a legend, but the weight of it. It explores the sacrifices required for unity, the personal cost of power, and the enduring spirit of a people forging their legacy. It is a profound South African story, told with the scale and depth it has always deserved. Don't miss the next chapter of Shaka iLembe Sundays at 8pm only on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161) and DStv Stream. Season 2 will be made available for viewing on Catch Up. Shaka iLembe season 2 is proudly sponsored by headline partner Telkom, associate partners Knorrox, Diageo and tactical partners Santam, Amka, Toyota, Spur, and Gordon's Gin. For more information, visit the show page Shaka iLembe ( or join in the conversation by using #ShakaiLembeS2 on our social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.
