In a surprising turn of events, SABC news anchor Noxolo Mtshali is making her way back to television, just months after announcing her departure from the public broadcaster. Mtshali, who became a beloved figure as an IsiZulu news anchor, initially shared her decision to step down in April, much to the dismay of her fans.
At the time, Mtshali expressed how much joy it brought her to deliver the news in IsiZulu, her mother tongue. “Nothing makes me happier than reading the news in IsiZulu and feeling proud of it,” she shared, highlighting the deep connection she has with her language and culture.
However, it seems that the pull of the SABC Zulu news desk was too strong to resist. Yesterday, Mtshali took to social media once again, this time with an exciting announcement: she’s returning to the screen in September.
Mtshali’s decision to return was heavily influenced by the outpouring of support she received from viewers, including her own family. “My grandmother is always asking where I am when she switches on the television at 7pm to watch the news on SABC1, hoping to see me,” Mtshali revealed. The anchor noted that this kind of heartfelt feedback made it impossible for her to stay away when she was called back to the SABC.
“I could not ignore izikhalo zenu [your complaints] anymore, which is why ngithobeka kakhulu ukunazisa ukuthi [I am announcing that] your girl is back on your screens,” Mtshali wrote with gratitude. She confirmed that her first bulletin will air on Monday, the 2nd of September 2024.
The love and support she has received from her audience deeply moved Mtshali. “Your love really humbles me,” she wrote, before encouraging her followers to continue celebrating and preserving indigenous languages. “Let us continue to advocate for our languages. Lungafi ngathi [Our languages must not die while we watch].”
Fans can once again look forward to seeing her deliver the news with the same passion and pride that has made her a household name.
