Month: October 2024

Fans of *Skeem Saam* have been buzzing with concern over the off-screen relationship between actor Eric Macheru and fellow actress Lethabo Mekoa. Their worry stems from the recent dramatic storyline in which Mekoa’s character, Ntswaki, accuses a man named Toby of rape. This intense plotline has blurred the lines between fiction and reality for some viewers, leading to speculation about the actors’ real-life connection.

The rumors about Macheru and Mekoa’s alleged off-screen romance quickly spread, with some fans mistaking the chemistry they portray on-screen for a real-life relationship. However, Macheru wasted no time addressing these concerns and setting the record straight. In a candid social media post, he praised Mekoa for her acting talents but emphasized that their relationship is purely professional. He added that he views Mekoa as a younger sister, dismissing any romantic involvement. Fans responded positively to his transparency, although the storyline has left some viewers struggling to separate the actors from their characters.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

**Eric Macheru: Devoted Husband and Father**

Eric Macheru is not just a beloved actor on *Skeem Saam*, but also a dedicated family man. The 37-year-old actor, known for his role as Leeto Maputla on the show, is happily married and a proud father. He often shares heartwarming moments with his family on social media, giving fans a glimpse into his personal life. His son, affectionately known as ‘King Macheru,’ frequently makes appearances on Macheru’s Instagram feed, with the actor showing off his pride and love for his family.

For Macheru, family comes first. He has often spoken about how his wife and child are his greatest source of strength and motivation. Despite his busy schedule, balancing the demands of his career and his family life is a priority. His commitment to being both a present father and a successful actor has earned him respect from both his fans and industry peers.

In interviews, Macheru has expressed the importance of staying grounded and keeping family at the center of his life. He has been a strong advocate for balancing work and personal life, stressing how critical it is to make time for the ones you love, regardless of fame or success. His ability to stay humble while excelling in his acting career has made him a role model for many.

**Lethabo Mekoa: Rising Star on *Skeem Saam***

While the storyline has sparked rumors and concern, Lethabo Mekoa’s career continues to rise in the South African entertainment industry. Playing the character Ntswaki on *Skeem Saam*, Mekoa has captivated audiences with her powerful performances. Her portrayal of a young woman facing intense challenges has earned her praise for her emotional depth and range as an actress.

Despite the public scrutiny over her rumored connection to Macheru, Mekoa’s focus remains on her craft. She has become one of the most promising young talents in South African television, quickly rising to fame for her ability to take on complex and dramatic roles. Her recent storyline on *Skeem Saam* has only solidified her place as a key figure in the show and has fans eager to see what lies ahead for her character.

**Conclusion**

The concern surrounding Eric Macheru and Lethabo Mekoa’s off-screen relationship highlights the difficulty some fans face in separating fiction from reality. However, Macheru’s open and honest approach has put many of these rumors to rest, reminding viewers that while the drama on-screen can be intense, their connection remains professional. At the same time, both actors continue to excel in their careers, with Macheru balancing his family life and work, while Mekoa’s star continues to rise.

Nonkanyiso “LaConco” Conco, known for her vibrant personality and star power on *The Real Housewives of Durban*, recently celebrated her birthday, sending waves of excitement across social media. With her growing influence in the entertainment industry, LaConco marked her special day by sharing a series of stunning photos in a traditional Zulu outfit, showcasing her beauty and pride in her cultural heritage. Fans from all over Mzansi and beyond flooded her social media with heartfelt birthday messages, turning the occasion into a celebration not just of her age, but of her continued rise as a key figure in South African media.

Nearby concert tickets

 

 

 

 

LaConco, who has been making headlines recently, secured a coveted hosting role for the show *Forever Thina*, further cementing her position as a notable presence in the industry. To celebrate her birthday, she embraced her heritage by wearing an elegant Zulu ensemble. Her outfit featured the traditional isicholo (a Zulu hat) and a striking, figure-hugging dress that accentuated her natural beauty and graceful presence. The choice of attire reflected both her cultural roots and her ability to mix tradition with modern fashion, creating a unique and captivating look that had her fans raving.

Her social media posts, which she captioned with the simple yet profound statement, “A year older,” were met with overwhelming support. Followers and fans from all walks of life praised her beauty, style, and the confidence she exuded in each photo. Many commented on how gracefully she continues to evolve as a public figure, with each year bringing new milestones in her career. The combination of her stylish wardrobe and her celebratory mood resonated with her audience, who joined her in celebrating another year of success and personal growth.

Among the many compliments, fans expressed admiration for the intricate beadwork and design of her dress. Elizabeth Nangoma Jiyane commented, “Love the sequence on the dress, and it sits well on you,” while Pearl Makhalima praised her, saying, “Awusemuhle nonkah, Happy Birthday Gal!” Others, like Busisiwe Manana, playfully added, “Iyhuuh! Fry us shem, we are your whatever you want us to be! Stunning!” The genuine love and appreciation for LaConco’s birthday look filled the comments, showcasing how deeply she resonates with her followers.

Beyond her stunning birthday appearance, LaConco continues to captivate audiences with her talent and poise. Earlier, she had shared behind-the-scenes moments from her preparation for hosting *Forever Thina*, which generated just as much buzz online. Her ability to command attention and create conversation around her looks and roles is a testament to her growing status as a media personality. Her fans eagerly anticipate her every move, following her journey closely as she navigates the entertainment landscape.

A tragic incident unfolded in Bromhof, Johannesburg, when a three-year-old girl tragically lost her life after the power supply to her breathing machine failed during a period of load shedding. The heartbreaking death has raised serious concerns over the impact of South Africa’s ongoing energy crisis, especially on vulnerable families who rely on medical equipment powered by electricity.

The young girl, diagnosed with Woree Syndrome—a rare neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by drug-resistant epilepsy and developmental delays—was dependent on a breathing machine to survive. On a Thursday night, her family was left helpless when the inverter that powered her breathing machine ran out of charge amidst one of the scheduled load shedding outages.

 

According to reports from the *Randburg Sun*, the family had done everything they could to ensure the inverter stayed charged, but due to ongoing power cuts and scheduled maintenance outages, they were unable to fully restore the power to the device. When the inverter finally failed, her mother desperately tried to assist her daughter using a backup battery-operated nebulizer. Unfortunately, this only provided temporary relief, as the power went out again just hours after electricity had briefly been restored.

The child died in her mother’s arms while they were en route to the hospital, a heartbreaking outcome that has sent waves of grief and outrage through the community and across the nation.
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### The Struggles of Living Amidst Load Shedding

City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena expressed his sorrow over the tragedy, acknowledging the toll that the national power crisis is taking on families throughout the country. He stated, “It is hard even for us when lives are lost because of this national crisis.” Mangena added that residents in Bromhof had been particularly affected by recurring outages and extended maintenance periods. He assured the community that efforts were being made to resolve the issue, but also cautioned that uninterrupted power could not be guaranteed under current conditions.

Residents with critical medical needs have been encouraged to ensure that they have adequate backup power systems in place, as the likelihood of continued outages remains high. However, this situation has only deepened the frustration many feel toward the government’s inability to solve Eskom’s ongoing energy challenges.

Ward councillor Ralf Bittkau, who recently lost his own daughter, was particularly affected by the incident. He offered his condolences to the grieving family, stating, “I understand the pain the family is going through.” Bittkau also directed his frustrations at the government’s handling of the energy crisis, saying that it was unacceptable for people to continue suffering while no real solutions have been presented.

“If the president doesn’t do anything, he’s also as guilty,” Bittkau added, pointing to the need for urgent government intervention in addressing Eskom’s persistent issues.

### A Life Cut Short

This tragic death underscores the severe consequences of South Africa’s power instability, especially for those dependent on medical equipment. The young girl’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of how load shedding continues to affect the most vulnerable members of society. She will be laid to rest next Wednesday, as her family and community mourn the loss of a precious life.

This devastating event calls into question not only the government’s management of the energy crisis but also the broader social implications of relying on an unreliable power grid. For families like this one, it’s not just about inconvenience—it’s a matter of life and death.

The popular South African drama series, Skeem Saam storyline divides Mzansi. This after Skeem Saam’s Toby (Seekay Buthelezi) sentenced to 15 years in jail

 

 

 

The educational SABC1 soapie is running a storyline about rape and consent, starring Lethabo Mekoa (Ntswaki Rathoka) and Sicelo “Seekay” Buthelezi (Tobias “Toby” Maswahla).

Toby has been sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment for his girlfriend, Ntswaki.

Seekay spoke to the publication about the storyline.

“To be honest, playing Toby felt like a big responsibility to carry, considering the fact that as an actor, you’ll be seen as that person in the public eye. To carry that pressure was a lot, but I also understood that I was doing the Lord’s work.

“These stories need to come out. So, if it’s me, I need to carry the story with honesty and no judgement. Pressure was there, and I guess it played well if the viewers are fighting about it,” he said.

The actor said he has learned a lot about consent during filming.

“There are things I’ve learnt. I might not have the right words to articulate them right now but judging from what I’ve seen on screen and read from the script, you get to understand that consent is more than people saying ‘no’.“I’m glad it helped open eyes for a lot of people. I would say be weary and careful of how you enter certain situations. It can either go right or wrong. Be careful as an individual. I don’t want to judge those who rooted for Ntswaki or those who rooted for Toby. The message people should get from the storyline is that, as an individual, make a good decision,” he said.

Vele Manenje, who plays Toby’s mum, Evelyn, said she didn’t only learn about consent but also about a mother’s love.

“I also wasn’t well-informed about consent. I had to research what we’re trying to tell South Africans, especially the young ones. Skeem Saam wanted young ones to learn, but we realised the older generation also needed to know about consent.

“Also, it has taught me about a couple of things such as a mother’s resilience, love, sacrifices, patience and the pain our parents go through, and we don’t even know how they make sure we’re fine. The biggest takeaway is a mother’s love,” she said.

Vele, however, said she’s proud of the work they have done.

“Today, at this present moment, it feels good because the message is delivered. However, throughout the storyline, it was a difficult and challenging journey. The most important thing was to express myself or put myself in every mum’s shoes. It wasn’t easy, but I had places I referenced from. And also, drawing from the honest pla

Popular South African actress, reality television star, and media personality Khanyi Mbau is soaking in the luxury as she turns 39, and her partner, Kudzai Mushonga, is making sure she feels all the love on her special day.

 

 

 

 

As the clock struck midnight on October 15, Kudzai took to Instagram to share a heartfelt video celebrating Khanyi. In the clip, he can be seen singing a joyful birthday tune, holding a plate of cake, while Khanyi dances with pure delight. Their love is palpable, and it’s a moment that perfectly encapsulates the magic they share. Kudzai captioned the video with heartfelt words: “It’s 00:00, 15 Oct. Help me wish my love a happy birthday. Here’s to another year of blessings and good health. I love love love you. May God keep giving you many years.”

This simple yet beautiful message illustrates the depth of Kudzai’s affection for Khanyi, a sentiment that resonates with many of their fans. The couple’s bond is an inspiring example of love and support, making their relationship a favorite among followers.Turning 39 is a significant milestone, and it comes at a time when Khanyi is thriving both personally and professionally. Her journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs, and she has always approached life with resilience and grace. As she steps into this new year, it’s an opportunity for reflection and a celebration of all that she has accomplished.

Kudzai’s love and support are crucial to Khanyi’s journey. His devotion is evident in the way he consistently lifts her up and celebrates her successes. Whether it’s through grand gestures or simple acts of affection, Kudzai is committed to making Khanyi feel cherished every day. Their relationship exemplifies what it means to be partners in every sense—sharing dreams, facing challenges, and celebrating victories together.

The couple’s public displays of affection, like the recent birthday celebration, showcase a relationship built on mutual respect and admiration. They remind us that love is about being present for one another, finding joy in the little moments, and celebrating life together, no matter how busy life gets.

Kudzai’s sweetest birthday message to his wife Khanyi Mbau as she turns 39

As Khanyi embarks on this new chapter, her fans and loved ones are excited to see what the future holds for her. With Kudzai by her side, she has a strong support system that encourages her to continue shining in all her endeavors. Together, they create a dynamic duo that captures the hearts of many.

Recently, South African reality TV star and social media influencer Khanyi Mbau turned a year older, sending waves of birthday love and warm wishes across the internet. If there’s one thing we know, it’s that Khanyi knows how to celebrate life in style—and this year was no exception, even if she opted for a quieter approach!

 

With a career that spans several years, Khanyi Mbau has become a household name, racking up over five million followers on social media. It’s no surprise that she often trends whenever she shares a post, leading her fans into fits of excitement. However, despite her fame, Khanyi has kept her actual age a closely guarded secret, leaving fans guessing for years. This birthday, though, revealed the numbers behind the glamorous facade—Khanyi turned 39 on October 15, 2023, born in Soweto, South Africa in 1985.

Now, this age revelation came through a bit of detective work, as Khanyi decided not to post any birthday pics herself. Instead, she chose to share warm birthday wish stories from her celebrity pals and various blogs. Talk about keeping it low-key! That didn’t stop The South African from dropping the age bomb on her, however, sparking discussions and surprise across social media.While many fans expressed disbelief at her age, comments poured in about her youthful looks, leading to debates on what contributes to her stunning appearance. Some couldn’t help but speculate that her various cosmetic enhancements are the secret sauce behind her ageless vibe. After all, Khanyi once famously stated, “I look better when I’m lighter,” and she’s candid about her desire to achieve a “doll-like” appearance.

Diving a bit deeper, it’s clear that Khanyi has invested quite a bit in her beauty. Over the years, she has undergone several procedures to achieve the picture-perfect body she desires. Some notable ones include a waist reduction and liposuction back in 2017. Her goal? An hourglass figure that would make a 22-year-old envious. With her soaring confidence and fierce determination, Khanyi has become a symbol of modern beauty standards.

Innocentia Manchidi and her husband are expressing their joy and excitement about their baby, whom they welcomed

Rendani from Muvhango ….she is an actress and business woman who plays the role of Rendani on SABC 2 soapie opera.
The real name of the female South African is Innocentia Makapila Manchindi.She was born on 15th of February in 1993.Although she is a successful actress, she also holds an honours degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Johannesburg. Outside of her acting job.

 

 

 

Innocent married Mpho Manchidi, her long-time boyfriend, in a stunning white wedding ceremony. The wedding took place on April 21st, 2019. This couple has been married for three years. Despite the fact that her husband does not work in the entertainment sector, he is a professional in his own right.
Rendani is not much into social media though she often set it ablaze when she shows up. She is a graduate in Linguistics. The young star actor’s desire is to study editing and translating language policy.

Former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane, who recently parted ways with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has revealed that the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has reached out to her multiple times about joining their ranks. Is she considering aligning herself with the party led by Jacob Zuma?

Mkhwebane confirmed her resignation from the Red Berets on Wednesday, 16 October. She joined the party after she was impeached in September 2023 and became the first head of a Chapter 9 institution to be axed.
IS BUSISIWE MKHWEBANE JOINING THE MK PARTY?

 
The MK Party is set to hold a media briefing on Thursday, 17 October, to comment on the first 100 days of the so-called Government of National Unity (GNU).

The GNU was formed after the historic 29 May elections where the party emerged as the third-biggest political party in the country. It received over two million votes and became the official opposition in Parliament.

Speaking on Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh’s podcast, Mkhwebane admitted that the Zuma-led party had approached her before.

Mpofu-Walsh is Dali Mpofu’s son, Mkhwebane’s legal representative in the many of his legal battles, such as impeachment case and her dismissed claim for a R10 million gratuity.

Also, when she was appointed public protector in 2013, it was widely reported that Mkhwebane had a close relationship with Zuma. In fact, when Zuma was incarcerated in 2021, Mkhwebane said she was concerned and that the media had painted the former president as a villain.

Former EFF deputy president and co-founder Floyd Shivambu hailed the former public protector as a hard-working and skilled individual.

“Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane is one of the most disciplined, hard working and skilled professionals I know. She never sacrifices principle on the altar of convenience! Viva Black Excellence!” he posted on X after Mkhwebane announced her resignation.

Apart from that, Mkhwebane’s husband David Skosana is also an MK member of Parliament, making his National Assembly debut in the seventh administration. So, is there a chance that Mkhwebane could be unveiled as the newest member of the MK Party?

ANGEL ZUMA, MSIZI NJAPHA AND KWANELE MTHETHWA EXITS

Entertainment commentator Jabu McDonald reveals that Angel Zuma and Msizi Njapha who play a married couple, Nomkhozi and Khulekani Mthembu in Umkhokha: The Curse are leaving the show.

Actress Kwanele Mthethwa who took over Kwezi Ndlovu’s character in 2023 as Nobuntu is also leaving.

Sources from Umkhokha: The Curse previously revealed to Zimoja that Zuma has been offered a lucrative role on the internationally acclaimed musical drama, The Lion King.

 

 

 

 

 

“My friend has always wanted to go and work abroad. You don’t miss an opportunity of working in a production like The Lion King. It is every actor’s dream,” says the source.

The publication adds that the faith-based telenovela is completing season two and there is still no word from Mzansi Magic whether they are renewing contracts for season three or not.

Multichoice publicist Portia Hlongwane said they were not aware of the news of actors being fired or quitting the telenovela. “Let me find out for you. But Msizi’s storyline is still part of the show,” said Hlongwane.

Hlongwane also previously confirmed to Zimoja that Zuma has gotten an amazing opportunity to be part of the Lion King in Canada (Toronto).

Coming up on Smoke&Mirrors this week
Monday 14 October 2024
Episode 131
Thandiswa learns of Juba’s devasting death. Caesar learns that Thandiswa hasn’t revealed their marriage to Nomeva. While Nomeva faces the daunting task of arranging Juba’s funeral.
Tuesday 15 October 2024
Episode 132

Coming up on Smoke&Mirrors this week October 2024

 

Mpendulo is deeply affected by Juba’s death. Thandiswa tells Caesar that he can’t attend the funeral and Nomeva learns that Sakhile withdrew a large amount of money from her account.
Wednesday 16 October 2024
Episode 133
Leroy and Thandiswa are surprised when Martha attends Juba’s funeral, but Nomeva acknowledges Martha’s role in bringing Juba to her. Later Nomeva confronts Sakhile about the money.
Thursday 17 October 2024
Episode 134
Sakhile confronts Petunia about making him the bad guy in the Mamiki saga. Sakhile intends to tell Nomeva the truth about her money, but Thandiswa comes up with a lie instead.
Friday 18 October 2024
Episode 135
Sakhile affirms Thandiswa’s lie to Nomeva who senses she’s being lied to. Thandiswa later drops her bomb of being married to Caesar. Philile swallows her pride and begs Martha for money.
Monday 21 October 2024
Episode 136
Thandiswa recruits Caesar to help sway Nomeva’s opinion about their relationship. Meanwhile, Petunia’s jealousy reaches new heights as Sakhile and Mamiki’s bond grows stronger.
Sanele Ngwenya Ndlovu