Muvhango Soapie Ends After 28 Years – Final Episode Airs on SABC2

End of an Era: SABC2’s Tshivenda Soapie ‘Muvhango’ Concludes After 28 Years

After nearly three decades on air, SABC2’s beloved Tshivenda soapie Muvhango has aired its final episode, marking the end of an era for South African television. Created by Duma Ndlovu, the show first premiered on April 7, 1997, and quickly became a staple for its authentic depiction of Venda culture and community life.

Over the years, Muvhango received critical acclaim, including a nomination for the South African Film and Television Award for Best Soapie Opera in 2006 and winning the Best Achievement in Costume Design – TV Soap Award in 2009. On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, viewers tuned in to witness the soapie’s emotional finale.

Doctor Regina Nesengani, who portrayed Vho-Masindi, the Chief’s mother, for 17 years, shared her feelings about the show’s conclusion:
“Watching the last episode, one felt it meant it’s over for me. It gives one the feeling that it is the end of the world. It’s a painful scene, but there is nothing much we can do. It’s written in the Bible that everything has its own season, so it was the season for us to be watched on TV for the last time.”

Residents of Thathe Vondo village, near Thohoyandou, where some scenes were filmed, also expressed their sadness. Many highlighted how the show mirrored real-life experiences and played a crucial role in promoting the Tshivenda language and culture.

“It’s painful, we enjoyed watching it. They were acting nicely in Venda and promoting the Venda language. VhoMushasha was helping in saving lives. After him came VhoMulimisi, who showed us real traditional healers don’t kill, and they continue doing everything to protect life,” said a local resident.

As Muvhango concludes, it leaves behind a legacy of cultural storytelling and a faithful audience that will remember its characters and lessons for years to come.