Shaka Ilembe: New Drama Revives Memory of Legendary Zulu King

Kampala 22^nd June 2023 – MultiChoice Uganda the home of great Pay-Tv entertainment is thrilled to launch two new shows; Shaka iLembe and the Beloved drama series.

Shaka Ilembe, which is centred on the remarkable life of the legendary Zulu King – Shaka Zulu, will take viewers on an immersive journey through the events and people that shaped his extraordinary early years of South African history.

The Beloved, which at a glance shows the pomp of the Kaya family, portrays prosperity, and happiness yet beneath it all lies a web of concealed truths and disgruntlement. This shows comes at a time when Prestige the household favourite Ugandan series comes to an end.

Her Excellency, Lulama Xingwana the High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa to Uganda, poses with Faith Kirabo who plays as Suubi in Beloved, with Hassan Saleh the Managing Director, MultiChoice Uganda and other cast members of Beloved during the launch of the show at Mestil in Kampala

Whereas Shaka Ilembe kicked off on 18^th June, Beloved is set to premiere on Pearl Magic Prime on channel 148 on DSTV and 303 on GOTV on 26^th June 2023.

Beloved is produced and directed by prominent film producer Nathan Magoola, while Shaka iLembe is produced by Bomb Production based in South Africa, renowned for its exceptional storytelling and production artistry.

Shaka Ilembe promises an exhilarating experience and in the first episode delivered a rich and enthralling narrative, bringing to life the awe-inspiring legacy of King Shaka Zulu Ilembe.

Some of the cast and crew of The Beloved series during the launch of the show at Mestil Hotel in Kampala.

As a fictional interpretation of historical events, Shaka iLembe seeks to strike a delicate balance between entertainment and culture. The producers, in collaboration with historians and cultural advisors, have dedicated significant effort to ensure that the Ngoni culture is authentically portrayed and honoured throughout the series.

Speaking at the launch of the event, Brian Mulondo the Local Content Marketing Manager at MultiChoice Uganda commented on the diversity that both shows bring to Ugandan screens stating, “We are delighted to present two exciting diverse shows, Shaka iLembe and Beloved, commissioned by MultiChoice. These series will entertain our Ugandan audiences mostly for their relatability.”

Her Excellency, Lulama Xingwana the High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa to Uganda speaking at the launch of Shaka iLembe at Mestil In Kampala.

“Growing up, the story of Shaka Zulu was one known to many. With Shaka Ilembe, this series will revive the memories most resonate with while informing and educating the audiences on the South African heritage and culture,” Mulondo added.

Mulondo further challenged Ugandans in the film industry to invest more time into growing the local narratives, “The producers, cast and crew of Beloved have invested their time and proficiency into a series many will grow to love and enjoy. This is therefore a call to all filmmakers to take time to better their craft, to tell our Ugandan stories” Mulondo added.

Nathan Magoola, the producer of Beloved spoke at the launch at Mestil Hotel in Kampala.

MultiChoice Uganda has demonstrated a great investment in the Uganda film industry with the launch of new and exciting shows like Urban Life, Juniors Drama Club, Kan See Me, Take Me Back, POPI with many more in the pipeline.

These efforts by Africa’s most loved storyteller, MultiChoice Uganda through their flagship channels Pearl Magic Prime, Pearl Magic, Pearl Magic LOKO and Maisha Magic Movies are in a bid to strengthen and increase the offering to customers while fostering the advancement of the Ugandan film industry.

Shaka iLembe airs every Sunday at 8:00 pm with repeats at 8:30 pm on Pearl Magic Prime, Channel 148 on DStv, and Channel 303 on GOtv.