Sweet Guluva joins Amalanga Awafani as Season 2 welcomes new faces

Actor and reality television star Akhonamathemba ‘Sweet Guluva’ Zwane is joining Season 2 of SABC1’s Amalanga Awafani, making his debut on Friday, 11 September.

He is one of two new faces joining the series this month, with award-winning actress Thandeka Nodada set to make her first appearance on Tuesday, 29 September.

Their arrival forms part of a September line-up filled with drama, comedy, mystery, music and a special Heritage Month celebration.

Sweet Guluva returns to one of his first loves

Sweet Guluva will play Ngwenya, the firm but entertaining restaurant manager at the local watering hole.

While his character keeps a tight ship, viewers can expect a lighter side to Ngwenya too.

Sweet Guluva expressed his excitement about joining Amalanga Awafani.

“I am happy about the opportunity to play Ngwenya on Amalanga Awafani since a lot of people don’ t know that one of my first loves was acting. When I got a call back from the producers, I saw this as a once in a lifetime opportunity, the show is set in Nquthu and I am also from Nquthu.

“The series resonates with me as it is about drama and music. I love acting and I make music.

“Viewers can expect some seriously funny moments with a firm character”.

Thandeka Nodada brings mystery to Amalanga Awafani

The mood shifts later in September when Nodada makes her debut as Nandipha.

The sophisticated and influential businesswoman enters Thembi’s life as a mentor, mother figure and seemingly generous gateway to a bigger future.

Nandipha initially appears to have it all, including grace, business savvy and a warm, motherly presence.

But there is more to her than first appears.

Thandeka Nodada adds: “Nandipha’s character truly embodies the saying, ‘If it’s too good to be true, it probably is’. She is gracious, motherly, helpful and business savvy, truly a Mother Teresa figure.”

Audiences will get to uncover the different layers of Nandipha as her seemingly nurturing nature begins to reveal a darker side.

Heritage Month takes centre stage

Amalanga Awafani will also mark Heritage Month with a special episode on Thursday, 24 September, featuring the Amabutho concert at the Soweto Theatre.

The celebration combines music, culture and storytelling, with Sannere and Feza making special appearances.

The episode acknowledges the richness of Nguni, Pedi, Setswana and Sesotho cultures.

The concert also marks the first performance by aboMzala, Sabelo and Fenda, bringing the on-screen musical duo together on stage for the first time.

Beyond celebrating South Africa’s different cultures, the concert includes a tribute song dedicated to women, highlighting the unfair treatment and abuse experienced by women in relationships with abusive partners.

With new characters, unexpected motives and a Heritage Month celebration centred on music and culture, Amalanga Awafani is adding plenty to its September storyline.

Amalanga Awafani airs Monday to Friday at 18.30 on SABC1 and is also available on the SABC Plus app.

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