A love letter to AmaMpondo

Mpondoland brings the rich history, spirituality and resilience of AmaMpondo to screen; exploring identity, community and the fight for economic freedom

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Mpondoland co-executive producer Chumisa Cosa.

(Photo: Samke Makhoba)

This invaluable cultural richness, is what co-executive producer Chumisa Cosa fictionalises in Mzansi Magic's new and first-ever Mpondo drama.

"This was my love letter to the Mpondo people," Cosa said during our interview.

The remarkable resilience and profound sense of identity is what drew Cosa's attention to the Mpondo people.

"The Eastern Cape is quite diverse; there are Mpondo, Bhaca and Hlubi people, for instance. All these groups have rich histories and have made positive contributions. The aim was to shine a spotlight and celebrate one of the beautiful people."

Cast and costume

Alongside co-executive producer, Mmamitse Thibedi, Cosa created a powerful tale of identity, greed, self-discovery, and responsibility with cannabis farming at the centre.

Set in a fictional village called KwaKhonjwayo, Mpondoland follows Mkhondwana, portrayed by Thembekile Komani, who must choose between pursuing his personal ambition and following tradition. The people of KwaKhonjwayo are rocked hard when a ruthless outsider threatens to disrupt the tribe's peace and economic activities.

The big pharma villain Pele-Pele is played by veteran Tina Jaxa and impeccably adds to the ensemble cast. The cast also includes Luzuko Nkqeto, Siziphiwe Maqubela, Nkosinathi Emmanuel Gweva, and Anele Matoti, among many others.

"The most important thing for us was getting performers who fit the characters, not casting stars," Cosa says. "We were fortunate that we got some amazing actors."