Mbulelo Mpofu, mbulelo.smpofu@gmail.com
Outspoken UK-based Zimbabwean artist, Bruce “Njube Giant” Ncube, known for his unique workshops teaching traditional Zimbabwean songs in diverse harmonies, is proposing an exciting new reality TV show to take place in Bulawayo.
This concept draws inspiration from the latest edition of the Netflix reality series Young, Famous and African, which features renowned and affluent stars as they work, play, flirt and feud in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The first episodes of the show, featuring musicians Diamond Platnumz and Nadia Nakai, also introduced a new face: local personality Zodwa Mnkandla, a successful businesswoman and prominent member of the “rich cousins” circle.
According to Ncube, the series he envisions, titled From Bulawayo, Hustling and Thriving, aims to spotlight local talent while fostering a strong sense of community.
“It came to my mind to think, ‘Why don’t we have our own reality show, since we have so many artistes who have done amazingly well?’” Ncube stated on his social media platforms.
“Why don’t we tell their stories by bringing them together in one place to share ideas and get to know each other in a more intimate space?”
The proposed show aims not only to celebrate the artistry of local personalities but also to introduce some drama, as Ncube plans to bring together individuals who may have existing feuds, adding a layer of controversy to the mix.
“I would pose a question to clear the drama and end the tension,” he added, suggesting that the show could delve into the dynamics of relationships within Bulawayo’s creative scene.
To launch the show, Ncube is seeking financial support and has initiated a GoFundMe campaign.
“I need your help to raise £5,000 through GoFundMe, so we can make this a reality,” he told his followers.
“It’s important to celebrate people in the creative, sporting, entrepreneurial and fashion industries. Think about the filmmakers who could benefit from producing such a significant show and showcasing what Bulawayo can achieve when resources are available. Imagine the fashion designers dressing the cast – it’s an opportunity to spotlight incredible talent.”
“Picture the drama and chaos,” he continued, “with everyone sharing their stories – how they’ve reached this point in their journeys, their family dynamics and their love lives.”
Ncube revealed that he envisions one season of the show, consisting of around five episodes, featuring 18 of Bulawayo’s most influential movers and shakers. These could potentially include Lorraine Maphala-Phiri, Fadzai Chinyanga, Mzoe Seven, Awa Khiwe, Nitefreak, Leroy Waps, Ntandoyenkosi Moyo, Vuyo Brown, MJ Sings, Charmaine Mainey Mudau, Taboka Patience Nleya, Nkanyeziyethu Malunga, Novuyo Seagirl, Madlela Skhobokhobo, and Sipho Mercent Nyathi.
The idea has already garnered support from fellow artistes, including Germany-based rapper Awa Khiwe, who joined Ncube’s live session on Facebook to express enthusiasm for the project.
“This is an amazing idea. We don’t have enough content to entertain ourselves and most of the time, social content creators from other countries are making it. We need to level up as well,” said the Rap- Gandaganda hitmaker.
Reality television has been gaining traction in Zimbabwe, with shows like the Foodie Lovers Dating Show, airing on 3Ktv, demonstrating an appetite for local content. Ncube’s proposed reality show could further contribute to this growing trend, providing a platform for personalities from Bulawayo to shine.
Ncube’s recent work includes participation in major festivals and events, such as The Natural Voice Network Annual Gathering, Womad and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. His experience in these high-profile settings lends credibility to his vision for a locally-produced reality show.
— @MbuleloMpofu
