Excitement was in the air as the media gathered at Bomb Shelter Productions for a special preview of Shaka iLembe season 2. With the much-loved series returning soon, producers Desireé Markgraaff and Angus Gibson, along with executive producer Nomzamo Mbatha, gave a glimpse into what fans can expect. They also introduced the new stars who will be joining the cast for the second season.
Building on the success of its record-breaking first season, Shaka iLembe will continue to tell the thrilling story of King Shaka’s rise to power. The show is known for its stunning visuals, strong performances, and rich storytelling. Now, the story grows bigger with fresh faces adding even more drama and excitement.
The new cast members include Zamani Mbatha, Luyanda Zuma, Amanda Seome, Anele Sphamandla Nene, and Sikhanyiso Sithole. Each of them shared their excitement about joining such a powerful production.
Zamani Mbatha, who plays Nomahlanjana, the ambitious son of Zwide, had to go through many auditions to land the role. “Every time they said ‘action’, I was taken aback by what I was able to do – and I didn’t know where that came from,” Zamani shared. Speaking about the tough audition process, he added, “I never doubted God’s timing, even after an audition process that was challenging and intense. I am excited to be part of this production.” His character is a strong and unpredictable warrior, always trying to outshine his brothers.
Amanda Seome, who plays Ntombazana, Zwide’s clever daughter, said joining the show felt like destiny. “I auditioned for season 1 and was not successful, I was heartbroken. My mother had to comfort me,” she said. “But when season 2 came around, I got a second chance and it was smooth – like it was meant to be.” Trained by her fierce grandmother Ntombazi, Ntombazana is a master of manipulation in a male-dominated world.
Anele Sphamandla Nene takes on the role of Sikhunyana, Zwide’s son who dreams of peace. “Being on Shaka iLembe is a dream come true,” Nene said. “Everyone wants to be part of uShaka, and I am grateful it finally manifested. It is a deeply spiritual show – you can’t just be there for the sake of being there.” His character will face challenges as he tries to choose between loyalty and love.
Sikhanyiso Sithole plays Princess Hletjiwe, a beautiful royal from eSwatini caught in a heartbreaking marriage. “I can’t believe I am here,” she said emotionally. “I am proud to represent eSwatini.”
Luyanda Zuma will portray Liyana, a brave and spirited maiden serving Queen Mother Mthaniya. “I manifested myself into the cast,” Zuma revealed. “The casting process was gruelling – I went through seven callbacks. Bomb is very rigorous and thorough.” She shared how Nomzamo made her first scene feel easy. “Nomzamo was welcoming and made the experience a breeze,” she said.
Behind the scenes, the new cast members said their own journeys mirrored the struggles of their characters. Sithole summed it up beautifully: “Bomb Shelter doesn’t cast – they unearth.” Seome also thanked Nomzamo for encouraging her to trust herself, while Zamani said Nomzamo helped turn “chaos into clarity” during tough scenes.
With season 2 promising more action, betrayal, and emotional stories, Shaka iLembe is set to keep viewers glued to their screens.
Shaka iLembe season 2 premieres on Sunday, 15 June at 20:00 on Mzansi Magic (channel 161). You can also catch up on Showmax, Mzansi Wethu (channel 163) at 21:00, or DStv Catch Up.
