Talented Eswatini actors starring in e.tv’s hit drama Isitha: The Enemy are pressing on with their exciting journey in South Africa despite early logistical hurdles.
The performers — Maggie Ginindza, Floriano Santos, Sindiswa Gwebu, Mphilisi Shabangu, and Kenneth Maseko — were bid farewell by Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima in July. They briefly returned home last weekend after their initial 30-day stay expired, but are already heading back to Johannesburg to continue filming.
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This was confirmed by Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) CEO Stanley Dlamini:
“The actors had returned back home this past weekend because their 30 days of being in South Africa had depleted, so there was a need for them to return, but they are on their way back as we speak.”
Dlamini emphasised the importance of clear shoot schedules and contracts to avoid unnecessary costs.
“We have realised it is costly for the actors to be in South Africa indefinitely without a shoot schedule and contracts. It is important for the actors to have a schedule so they are able to save on accommodation and all the works,” he said.
Feedback from the cast has been overwhelmingly positive. Some have already filmed scenes, while others are preparing to do so.
Actor Sindiswa Gwebu confirmed his return to set but remained discreet:
“I am on my way back to South Africa to shoot, but I cannot reveal much at this juncture.”
Dlangeni-born actor Mphilisi Shabangu expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity.
“Even being out of the country is a first experience. I’m still in shock, but I’m enjoying every bit on set in Johannesburg, and I promise I won’t disappoint. I will do my best to lift the Eswatini flag.”
He credited mentors Pedzisayi Sithole and ENCAC for supporting local talent, adding:
“God has been great all the time.”
Isitha: The Enemy, created by Mandla N and Mpumelelo Nhlapo and produced by Black Brain Pictures, continues to showcase Swati talent such as Hloniphile Shlongonyane, Gedlembane, and Nobandile Gwebu (Zandile Ngwenya).
Dlamini praised the collaboration, saying it signals a bright future for local actors on regional screens.
What Industry Figures Had to Say
Hallelujah Tsela – Actor
“Seeing so many Emaswati actors represent the country on Isitha: The Enemy has been truly inspiring. It proves that our talent is undeniable and signals growth for our film industry. These actors will bring back valuable knowledge to share. We also hope parents and elders will be more supportive of young people pursuing acting as they see these opportunities. Corporate sponsors should also step up to assist actors with travel and accommodation expenses.”
Setsabile Masina – Actress
“We are proud of our colleagues for securing these opportunities, which show our craft is being recognised beyond our borders. My advice is for them to remain strong-willed and confident. Being part of South African productions is a significant step forward, but we urge our government to provide greater support.”
Lindelwa Mafa – Radio Personality & Actress
“It is incredibly exciting for Emaswati actors to receive such opportunities on South African television. We are proud of their achievements and hopeful that their success will translate into valuable contributions to our country’s film industry.
This partnership is something we wholeheartedly applaud. We are also thrilled that our language, which has been neglected over the years, will shine through our Siswati-speaking actors. It’s inspiring to learn how things are done professionally in South Africa, including the use of advanced equipment, so that we can eventually replicate these standards at home. Our country is rich in talent but often lacks technical resources. We thank ENCAC for opening these doors and hope that more opportunities and knowledge-sharing workshops will follow.”
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