Muvhango Soapie Ends After 28 Years – Final Episode Airs on SABC2

Johannesburg - After 28 remarkable years on South African screens, SABC2’s beloved Tshivenda soap opera, Muvhango, has officially come to an end, closing a significant chapter in local television history.

Created by acclaimed playwright and producer Duma Ndlovu, the show premiered on 7 April 1997, and quickly won over audiences with its authentic portrayal of Venda culture, language, and traditions. For nearly three decades, Muvhango became more than just a soapie — it was a cultural touchstone for millions of viewers across the country.

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Awards, Recognition, and Cultural Impact

Throughout its run, Muvhango earned industry recognition, including a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) nomination in 2006 for Best Soapie Opera, and winning Best Achievement in Costume Design – TV Soap in 2009.

The show’s success was built on its unique storytelling approach, blending modern life with traditional Venda customs, while tackling real social issues such as family conflict, morality, and identity.

Emotional Final Episode

On Tuesday, 12 August 2025, South Africans tuned in for the show’s final episode, marking a deeply emotional moment for both the cast and its loyal audience.

Veteran actress Doctor Regina Nesengani, who portrayed the memorable character Vho-Masindi, the Chief’s mother, for 17 years, shared her heartfelt reflections:

“Watching the last episode, one felt it meant it’s over for me. It gives one the feeling that it is the end of the world. It’s a painful scene, but there is nothing much we can do. It’s written in the Bible that everything has its own season, so it was the season for us to be watched on TV for the last time.”

Venda Community Reacts

The show’s cultural importance extended far beyond television. Residents of Thathe Vondo village near Thohoyandou, where parts of the soapie were filmed, expressed sadness at its conclusion.

One local remarked on the series’ role in promoting Tshivenda language and heritage:

“It’s painful, we enjoyed watching it. They were acting nicely in Venda and promoting the Venda language. VhoMushasha was helping in saving lives. After him came VhoMulimisi, who showed us real traditional healers don’t kill, and they continue doing everything to protect life.”

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The Legacy of Muvhango

As Muvhango bows out, it leaves behind a legacy of cultural preservation and storytelling. Its characters, storylines, and life lessons will continue to resonate with viewers long after the final credits rolled.

More than just entertainment, Muvhango will be remembered as a trailblazer for indigenous language programming, a celebration of African identity, and a platform that gave a voice to Tshivenda culture on national television.