n the vibrant world of South African entertainment, a surprising number of celebrated personalities hail from neighboring Zimbabwe. These stars, with their unique backgrounds, have contributed greatly to South Africa’s rich cultural tapestry. From music and acting to sports and media, Zimbabwean talent has significantly shaped various sectors of South Africa’s entertainment industry. Here’s a look at some of the most prominent South African celebrities who are actually Zimbabwean.

### 1. **Sha Sha – The Queen of Amapiano**

 

 

 
Charmaine Shamiso Mapimbiro, better known as Sha Sha, is a Zimbabwean-born sensation in the South African music scene. Renowned for her smooth voice and captivating Amapiano beats, Sha Sha made her mark with chart-toppers like *Tender Love* and *Akulaleki*. Despite her success in South Africa, she proudly showcases her Zimbabwean roots, blending Afrobeat and Amapiano to create a sound that resonates across Africa. Sha Sha’s rise to fame has earned her numerous accolades, establishing her as one of the leading figures in the genre.

2. Nadia Nakai – The Rap Queen
Nadia Nakai, a force in South Africa’s hip-hop scene, was born in South Africa to Zimbabwean parents. She has never shied away from celebrating her Zimbabwean heritage, incorporating it into her music and public persona. Nadia’s fierce rap skills and hits like *Naaa Meeean* and *Imma Boss* have cemented her status as one of South Africa’s most influential female rappers. Her success has not only made her a trailblazer for Zimbabwean talent in hip hop but also inspired many other female artists in the industry.

3. Chi Mhende – The Talented Actress

Chi Mhende, famed for her role as Shazam on *Generations: The Legacy*, is a Zimbabwean-born actress who has become a household name in South Africa. Born in Harare, Chi made her South African debut and quickly earned praise for her diverse acting skills. Whether in drama or comedy, Chi’s versatility has won her many awards, and she remains one of the most respected Zimbabwean actresses working in South Africa.

4. Oskido – The Legendary Musician and Producer

Although he is a South African citizen, Oskido’s roots trace back to Zimbabwe, where he was born to a Zimbabwean mother and South African father. Known as the “King of Kwaito,” Oskido was instrumental in defining the sound of 90s South African music. His contributions to the Kwaito genre and his leadership of the Kalawa Jazmee record label have influenced countless artists, from South Africa to Zimbabwe. Oskido’s impact on both the music scene and the careers of other artists is undeniable.

### 5. **Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira – The Rugby Legend**

Tendai Mtawarira, affectionately known as “The Beast,” is a retired rugby star who was born in Harare, Zimbabwe. After moving to South Africa as a young boy, Tendai went on to become one of the most successful props in international rugby. He played for the South African national team, the Springboks, for over a decade and was part of the 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning squad. His remarkable career showcases the power of Zimbabwean talent in global sports.

### 6. **Kim Jayde – The Model and Influencer**

Kim Jayde, a Zimbabwean-born model, influencer, and TV personality, has carved out a successful career in South Africa’s fashion and media industries. Known for her striking appearance and bold personality, Kim has worked with top South African brands and is a prominent advocate for diversity and body positivity. Her success highlights how Zimbabwean talent has transcended borders and made a significant impact on South Africa’s fashion scene.

### 7. **Peter Ndoro – The Veteran Sports Broadcaster**

Peter Ndoro is one of South Africa’s most respected sports broadcasters. Born in Zimbabwe, he moved to South Africa and established himself as a trusted sports presenter, covering major international events such as the FIFA World Cup and the African Cup of Nations. His deep voice and insightful commentary have made him a fixture on South African television, earning him a reputation as a leading sports anchor.

Conclusion

These Zimbabwean-born celebrities have not only achieved success in South Africa but have also contributed to the country’s cultural and entertainment landscape in meaningful ways. Whether through music, acting, sports, or media, they have proven that talent knows no borders, and their Zimbabwean roots remain an integral part of their success stories.

The ongoing and often complicated relationship between actor Sello Maake kaNcube and his estranged wife, Pearl Mbewe, has taken a dramatic turn, with the actor now accusing Mbewe and well-known socialite Lebo Keswa of harassment, emotional distress, and a potential affair. This latest development has added another layer of complexity to the public fallout from his breakup with Mbewe.

Maake kaNcube, who is widely recognized for his roles in popular South African TV shows, has had a tumultuous relationship with Mbewe, with the couple’s constant disagreements and public altercations often making headlines. However, the recent legal actions taken by the actor, including the filing of two protection orders—one against Mbewe and a new one against Keswa—have raised many eyebrows within the entertainment industry.

 

 

 

**Emotional Distress and Legal Action**

According to sources close to Maake kaNcube, the actor has sought legal protection due to ongoing emotional distress, harassment, and threats allegedly coming from both Mbewe and Keswa. In a statement released by his legal team, it was emphasized that “Our client has been subjected to harassment and threats by both parties, which have severely affected his emotional well-being,” leading him to take legal action to ensure his safety.

Earlier this year, Maake kaNcube had already served a protection order against his wife, Pearl Mbewe, citing an increasingly toxic and hostile relationship. The couple’s split has been marked by bitter accusations from both sides, including claims of abuse. However, the involvement of Keswa in the most recent legal actions has taken the drama to a new level, with some speculating that there may be more to the story than just harassment.

**Lebo Keswa’s Role and Public Silence**

Lebo Keswa, a well-known figure in South Africa’s social scene, has yet to publicly comment on the protection order or the accusations made against her. However, reports suggest that her involvement in the dispute stems from a series of escalating arguments between her and Maake kaNcube, which have played out in the public eye. The actor’s legal team has made it clear that the situation has become untenable for him, forcing him to take decisive steps to protect himself.

Though the exact nature of Keswa’s involvement remains unclear, it is widely believed that the actress’s growing tensions with Maake kaNcube are tied to her relationship with Mbewe. Rumors have swirled that Keswa may have been romantically involved with Maake kaNcube’s wife during their separation, although this remains speculative and unconfirmed.

**A High-Profile Legal Battle**

The escalating legal and emotional drama involving Sello Maake kaNcube, Pearl Mbewe, and Lebo Keswa has captivated the media, drawing attention from both fans and critics alike. As Maake kaNcube continues to pursue legal action to protect his emotional and physical well-being, the future of his relationships with both Mbewe and Keswa remains uncertain.

With Maake kaNcube’s career in show business continuing to flourish, the actor now finds himself at the center of a highly publicized legal battle that could have lasting personal and professional consequences. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the courts will handle the protection orders and whether the parties involved will be able to resolve their ongoing conflicts.

Evelyn from Skeem Saam has been turning heads with her recent sizzling photos! 🔥❤️ She’s absolutely glowing, leaving fans in awe of her stunning looks.Vele Manenje Biography – Who is Vele Manenje? Vele Manenje is a multi-talented South African actress, TV presenter, and language expert, who has been captivating audiences with her performances on both stage and screen. With a deep passion for the arts, Vele has established herself as one of the most versatile actresses in the country. She has worked across various television shows, including popular productions like DiepCity, Skeem Saam, and Muvhango. Vele’s ability to speak six out of South Africa’s 11 official languages, alongside her linguistic talents, has further bolstered her reputation in the entertainment industry.

 

 

 
The following article by IconBios Media tackles all you need to know about Vele Manenje. Get to know about her husband, kids, marriage, net worth etc.
Vele Manenje Biography – Who is Vele Manenje? Vele Manenje is a multi-talented South African actress, TV presenter, and language expert, who has been captivating audiences with her performances on both stage and screen. With a deep passion for the arts, Vele has established herself as one of the most versatile actresses in the country. She has worked across various television shows, including popular productions like DiepCity, Skeem Saam, and Muvhango. Vele’s ability to speak six out of South Africa’s 11 official languages, alongside her linguistic talents, has further bolstered her reputation in the entertainment industry.

The following article by IconBios Media tackles all you need to know about Vele Manenje. Get to know about her husband, kids, marriage, net worth etc.

Table of Contents
Vele Manenje Biography
Early Life and Background
Rise to Stardom
Notable Television Roles
Vele Manenje Husband – Personal Life
Vele Manenje Weight Loss Journey

Early Life and Background
Born on March 11, 1988, in Venda, Limpopo, Vele Manenje hails from a royal family, specifically the Manenzhe people. Venda was once a Bantustan under South Africa’s apartheid regime, designated for Black inhabitants as part of the National Party’s policies. While Venda is her birthplace, Vele was raised in Johannesburg, Gauteng, where she developed a deep passion for the arts from an early age.

After completing her studies at the National School of Arts in 2006, Vele pursued a degree in Communication Sciences at the University of South Africa (UNISA). Her journey into the arts started in theatre, where she honed her craft, eventually transitioning into television and film.

Rise to Stardom
Vele Manenje’s journey into stardom was not an overnight success. She built her career steadily, gaining recognition for her versatile acting skills. Over the years, Vele has earned several accolades, including a SAFTA13 Award. Her nominations for prestigious awards, including a SAFTA10 nomination, have further solidified her position as a talented actress in South Africa’s entertainment landscape.

Vele’s ability to fluently speak six official languages—Zulu, English, Spanish, Pedi, Venda, and various African accents—has set her apart as an actress. This language expertise has enabled her to take on diverse roles in various productions, making her a valuable asset in the entertainment industry.

RELATED POST – Dr Patience Mlengana Biography: Husband, Net Worth, Age, Tribe

Notable Television Roles
Vele Manenje is best known for her dynamic performances in popular TV shows such as:

Evelyn in Skeem Saam, one of South Africa’s most beloved soap operas.
Seani in Muvhango, another long-standing and popular South African TV series.
Aus Momo in DiepCity, a role that has further showcased her versatility as an actress.
In addition to her acting career, Vele has also worked as a TV presenter, notably in Our Perfect Wedding (OPW) seasons 8 and 9, where her charm and hosting skills gained her even more recognition.

Vele Manenje Husband – Personal Life
Despite her fame, Vele Manenje keeps her personal life relatively private. There are no confirmed details about her marital status, although it is rumored that she is not married. Additionally, information about her children or family life has not been publicly disclosed.

Vele Manenje Weight Loss Journey
Vele Manenje has been open about her dedication to health and fitness. While there are no specific details regarding her weight loss journey, it’s clear that she is committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Her passion for dancing and other physical activities, including candle and jewelry making, plays a part in her well-rounded approach to life.

Vele Manenje Tribe and Cultural Heritage
Vele Manenje comes from the Manenzhe people, part of the Venda tribe. Her cultural roots remain important to her, and her connection to her heritage is often reflected in her work, whether it’s through her role choices or the way she celebrates her traditions.

Vele Manenje Net Worth
With a thriving career in acting and television, Vele Manenje has amassed an estimated net worth of $186,000. This includes her earnings from acting roles, TV presenting, and scriptwriting services, particularly in translation. As she continues to grow in her career, her net worth is likely to increase.

Social Media Presence
Vele Manenje is active on social media, where she engages with her fans and shares insights into her personal and professional life. You can follow her on Instagram at @vele_manenje. She frequently posts updates on her projects, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and motivational content.

In a heartbreaking incident, 20-month-old Kaone Peka became the latest casualty of a troubling trend in South Africa, in which an estimated one to two children drown every day. Research indicates a pattern in these cases, with children aged one to four most at risk. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and preventive measures to protect vulnerable children from this ongoing crisis.The mother of a 20-month-old baby who died two weeks ago says she is making headway in her legal battle to get answers about his death.

 

 

 
Lesego Peka trended on social media last week after going public about the death of her son Kaone. It was alleged Kaone drowned in a swimming pool at his father’s house in Centurion while under the care of two helpers.

The child was buried two days later but the mother was not present.

In a series of posts on Instagram this week, Peka thanked those who stood by her, helping her secure legal representation in seeking answers about the cause of death of her child. Her gratitude extended specifically to the women who showed up in large numbers to march on her behalf at the Olifantsfontein police station last month.

 

 

 
“Thank you to everyone who has been supporting me. You have carried me through your prayers and acts of kindness. Thank you to everyone who has stood behind us during this difficult time,” she said.

“Your contribution has greatly helped in getting a legal representative, a court order has been granted in my favour. I will update you soon on the outcome. Further developments and details will follow later. This is a difficult time for me. What seems to be a breakthrough or victory also marks the beginning of this painful journey we are about to embark on.”

Peka did not share what the court order stipulated but she had been fighting to get a post-mortem conducted on her child.

Kaone’s father Oberon Matsuvuki previously released a statement publicly addressing the circumstances surrounding his son’s death and the subsequent decision to proceed with the burial without the presence of his mother.

He said he had called Peka the day of the drowning, when she had been travelling to Limpopo. He said he kept her updated about his plan for the burial. TimesLIVE Premium reported Peka had wanted to approach a court to halt the burial but was too late — the child was buried before her request could be actioned.

At the time of the incident, Matsuvuki had been granted custody of Kaone after Peka, who had left her full-time job to care for her child, became homeless and dependent on friends and family.

CONTROVERSIAL musician Kelly Khumalo shocks many with her announcement.

She’s announced that she finally graduated as an inyanga (traditional healer).

Kelly finally achieves inyanga status
Kelly, who celebrated her 40th birthday on Monday, 11 November, revealed she’s been trained as a traditional healer four to five times over the past 15 years.

 

 

 

 
Now, when she speaks, she addresses females as gogo and males as mkhulu.

She’s in the spotlight as the murder trial of her late boyfriend, Senzo Meyiwa, continues in court.

Speaking on Ukhozi FM on Monday morning, 11 November, Kelly announced her graduation from training as inyanga. “Today, as I’m celebrating my birthday, I’m also graduating as inyanga. So, now I’m officially inyanga.

“After 15 years of searching and trying to figure out who I am, today I’m finally graduating, and am a certified inyanga.

“But mine is different. It’s not just traditional healing but a universal gift. It’s not only focused on black people, but it’ll go all over the world. That’s why it took longer for me to even figure it out, gogo.

“I was trained four to five times, but today is the first time I’m graduating as inyanga. I was trained in many places, including in the water, nature, by prayer, and through my roots, because it’s important to know where I come from to know where I’m going,” she said. Kelly said she’s also working on a project to celebrate 20 years in the music industry, titled 20 Years of Kelly Khumalo, to be released at the beginning of 2025.

“I’m celebrating many milestones: 20 years in the industry, turning 40, and graduating as inyanga for the first time.

“For me, it feels like I’m given a new life, and everything is renewed and restored,” Kelly said.

She kept addressing Ukhozi FM presenter Mroza Buthelezi as gogo.

Daily Sun contacted Kelly for more information, but she politely declined to comment.

“Listen here, mkhulu, I don’t want to talk to newspapers, and don’t want anything related to newspapers,” she said.

South African singer Karlien van Jaarsveld revealed that she would make the same choices all over again on this week’s episode of Laataand by Rian.

KARLIEN VAN JAARSVELD ON MAKING THE SAME CHOICES
South African singer Karlien van Jaarsveld revealed that if she could go back in time, she would make the same choices, on an episode of Rian van Heerden’s show Laataand by Rian.

On the episode,
 
opened up about her time in Revolusie, an Afrikaans rock band, her divorce from former rugby player Derick Hougaard, her music career and her family.

Rian didn’t hold back, addressing the elephant in the room straight away by asking about her marriage to Derick.

“I think I have a need to help others change. My father is a beacon of hope for me. He was in a really bad place, caused a lot of damage, and then recovered. I believed there was hope, and I wanted to help Derick reach a place where he could choose himself. It cost a lot, but I decided I didn’t want my children to experience what I went through,” she said.

Karlien and Derick divorced in 2015. The pair have two children together Daniël and Elah.

KARLIEN VAN JAARSVELD DENIES SHE KEPT KIDS AWAY FROM DERICK HOUGAARD
Rian referred to the documentary series Hougaard: Liefling van Loftus, in which Derick claimed his children were kept from him. Karlien, however, said this isn’t true. She says he felt that way because he didn’t know how to be a father.

After her divorce, Karlien stayed with her equally famous brother, Bobby van Jaarsveld, for three months. During this time, her children started calling him “Dad”, as Derick didn’t make any contact.

“I never imagined it would turn out this way. I tried everything I could to encourage him to commit to being a father,” she said.

Despite the many tears and difficult times, Karlien still holds a place for Derick. “You never know when a relationship might be mended. There will always be room for him to return.”

Karlien also spoke about her daughter, Elah’s, health. In 2018, Elah was diagnosed with a life-threatening condition – a blood clot in the portal vein, which supplies blood to the liver, spleen, stomach and pancreas.

“There were so many things that had to happen for me to understand that verse. God says you must not only love your neighbour but also love your enemy as yourself. That’s why I truly love Derick, even if he doesn’t change. I have no expectations anymore. Seven months after this realisation, we took Elah for another scan of her abdomen, and the blood clot was gone.”

Bontle Modesele is all set to bring the heat with a brand-new dance move, and she’s rocking her own swag while doing it!Dancer and choreographer Bontle Modiselle, 33, recently celebrated her birthday on the 7th of October and declared it an era of a “New age, new levels”.

 

 

 

 

 

 
She recently celebrated being a Guinness World Record Holder for The Largest Amapiano Dance, Choreographed by her, performed Synchronised at the same time.

With an impeccable career, she recently announced a tour marking 18 years in the entertainment industry alongside Khuli Chana.

In May her her dance studio celebrated its 1-year anniversary, and in June she had the pleasure of teaching amapiano at the Swedish Amapiano Dance Workshop, at the Afia Festival.

Also Read: K Naomi has announced her second pregnancy

To mark her 33rd birthday she shared six photos of herself wearing an immaculate red body-hugging dress that expressed her excitement as she takes another trip around the sun.

South African media personalities Romeo and Basetsana Kumalo have successfully obtained another protection order against author Jackie Phamotse.

This latest legal action, granted by the Randburg Magistrate’s Court, prohibits Phamotse from harassing or attempting to harass the couple for the next five years.

 
The order also bars her from making or enabling any third parties to post malicious allegations about the Kumalos on social media until November 2029, reports Sunday World.

The Kumalo-Phamotse Dispute
The ongoing legal dispute between Basetsana and Romeo Kumalo and Jackie Phamotse began in 2018 when the couple first sought legal protection against the author.

Phamotse had previously suggested online that she’d seen a scandalous video involving a businessman married to a “media mogul,” leading to widespread speculation about the Kumalos.

Though Phamotse avoided explicitly naming them, many believed her statements targeted the couple. Since then, the Kumalos have repeatedly turned to the courts to prevent further allegations.

Details of the Recent Protection Order
According to MDN News, this new order reaffirms the restrictions placed on Phamotse. The document clearly states that she is forbidden from contacting, harassing, or making any defamatory posts about the Kumalos.

Additionally, she cannot direct or involve others to carry out any such actions on her behalf. Violation of this order could result in serious legal consequences for Phamotse, including possible imprisonment.

Public Reaction to the Case
The public has shown considerable interest in this high-profile dispute, with social media users sharing various reactions. Many followers voiced curiosity about Phamotse’s upcoming book, speculating that it could reveal further details about her perspective on the case.

Others expressed fatigue over the long-standing feud, while some suggested the frequent disputes hinted at “more beneath the surface.” The diversity of opinions highlights the contentious nature of the situation and reflects the impact of celebrity disputes on South Africa’s public consciousness.

Kumalos’ Stand on Harassment and Legal Protection
The Kumalos have emphasized that their actions are driven by a desire for peace and protection. Their public relations officer, Luphumlo Ngcayisa, explained that this five-year protection order represents a final effort to safeguard the couple’s dignity and privacy.

The Kumalos view this legal resolution as a significant step towards maintaining peace and setting a precedent for respecting boundaries within public and private spheres.

An Ongoing Battle
The ongoing legal battle between Basetsana, Romeo Kumalo, and Jackie Phamotse serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that come with fame, especially in the age of social media.

The Kumalos’ dedication to their right to dignity highlights the importance of legal protection in defending against harassment. As the court proceedings conclude, many hope that this will be the end of the public conflict and allow both parties to move forward.

The 2nd annual National Film & TV Awards South Africa was nothing short of spectacular.

Held on 9 November 2024 at Pretoria’s iconic State Theatre, the event was a brilliant showcase of the nation’s finest talent in film, television, and digital media.

NATIONAL FILM & TV AWARDS HOSTS
Dynamic personalities Jordan Kensington, Lesedi Phala, and Nicole Watson (of Real Housewives of Johannesburg fame) hosted the event.

 
The night dazzled attendees and viewers alike with its star-studded atmosphere and electrifying energy. The National Film & TV Awards South Africa is part of the National Film Academy.

This is a global body that has celebrated the best in entertainment for over 26 years, according to Biz Community..

NATIONAL FILM & TV AWARDS ON RECOGNISING TALENT
With a massive membership of 7.5 million worldwide, the Academy has become synonymous with recognising excellence in film and TV.

Since its expansion into South Africa in 2023, the awards have gained significant momentum. It has now become a prominent event on the country’s entertainment calendar.

The ceremony opened with a moving prayer, setting a tone of reverence and anticipation.

This year’s event saw 3.7 million votes from across South Africa.

This is a clear indication of how engaged the public is with their favourite stars and shows.

THE BIG WINNERS AT THE NATIONAL FILM & TV AWARDS
The night honoured the winners for their exceptional contributions to the industry.

Among the night’s biggest winners were Bonko Khoza, who took home the award for Best Actor 2024 for his role in Red Ink.

Nambitha Ben-Mazwi won Best Actress 2024 for her performances in Savage Beauty and Empini.

“I am truly humbled to be recognised by the public. This award is not just for me but for every actor who’s put in the hard work,” said Ben-Mazwi during her acceptance speech.

SOUTH AFRICAN TALENT
Other standout moments included Skeem Saam being crowned Best TV Drama Series 2024.

Heart of the Hunter dominated the film categories, winning Best Feature Film and Best Director for Mandla Dube.

“It’s a great honour to be part of a project that resonates so deeply with South African audiences,” Dube said, whose work on the film received critical acclaim.

The TV category also saw major wins as Skeem Saam’s S’dumo Mtshali won Best Actor in a TV Series.

OTHER MAJOR AWARDS AT THE NATIONAL FILM & TV AWARDS
Zikhona Sodlaka won Best Actress in a TV Series for Gqeberha – The Empire.

The awards also celebrated the talents of Tumi Morake, who took home the Best Comedian award.

Devi Sankaree Govender also won Best TV Presenter, Devi has been known to engage in superb interviews, making her a household name, according to Times Live.

Podcast and Chill by MacG claimed the Best Podcast award, earning special mention, it has been making waves nationwide, according to IOL.

Other major awards included Best Producer 2024, which went to Simoné Pretorius and Dries Scholtz for Som van twee.

TREVOR NOAH’S VIDEO MESSAGE
Celebrity Personality of the Year 2024 went to Trevor Noah.

Noah sent a video message from abroad: “This recognition means the world to me. Thank you for supporting me, South Africa!”

THE AFTER PARTY
The evening concluded with a VIP afterparty where nominees, winners, and industry leaders gathered to celebrate their achievements.

With the success of this year’s event, the National Film & TV Awards South Africa is poised to continue its legacy of elevating African talent on the global stage.

Inside Cassper Nyovest’s wedding to Pulane Mojaki. Images via Instagram: @casspernyovest
SOUTH AFRICANS CONGRATULATE THE RAPPER
Tebogo Phakedi: “A beautiful wife you have. Happy birthday to home girl.”

Barbzludidi: “What a beautiful love story.”

 
@nwabim: “O happy San. May the words be the lamp to your feet and light to your path.”RAPPER IS A BORN-AGAIN CHRISTIAN
The Northwest-born rapper opened up about how different life was after becoming a Christian and getting married in an interview on the L-Tido podcast this year.

“I just wanted to be an honest man. I was tired of playing games. It was just time [for me] to grow up and be saved. I saw things from the right perspective, and for the first time in my life, I wanted to be married.”

“It was not even about sex; I wanted to be an honest man and commit to this thing that I say I am. I am proudly married and I’m having the time of my life.”

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