MultiChoice Uganda has unveiled the second season of Shaka iLembe, a historical drama chronicling the early life of Zulu King Shaka. The 12-episode series returns Sunday at 10 p.m. on Pearl Magic Prime (DStv Channel 148) and GOtv Channel 303.
The show, praised for its cultural authenticity and strong storytelling, first aired in June 2023. Fully funded by MultiChoice and produced by South Africa’s Bomb Productions, Shaka iLembe has been described as a landmark in African historical drama.
“We are delighted to present Shaka iLembe as one of our flagship productions,” said Patricia Kiconco, Head of Customer Experience and Care at MultiChoice Uganda, speaking on behalf of the company’s managing director. “This series brings an epic tale of courage, ambition, and resilience to our screens.”
The show depicts the early years of King Shaka Zulu, a figure revered across Southern Africa. It blends dramatized storytelling with real cultural and historical detail. MultiChoice says it worked closely with historians and cultural advisors to ensure the portrayal of Nguni traditions was both respectful and accurate.
“We believe Ugandan audiences will be deeply moved by the storytelling, exceptional performances, and cultural richness embedded throughout the show,” Kiconco said.
At the launch event in Kampala, South Africa’s Chargé d’Affaires to Uganda, Sebola N. Solly, praised the series for putting African narratives in African hands.
“It is inspiring to witness Africans telling their own stories—for the continent and the world,” Solly said. “I encourage filmmakers across Uganda to learn from productions like Shaka iLembe and use film as a powerful medium to share authentic Ugandan narratives.”
He added that film can play a role beyond entertainment. “Film is not only a tool for storytelling but a vehicle for cultural diplomacy and economic growth. It creates opportunities for collaboration and significantly contributes to tourism in the regions where such stories are set.”
MultiChoice has positioned itself as a major investor in African content. In Uganda, it supports a range of shows including Juniors Drama Club, Damalie, Kampala Crème, Crossroads, Sanyu, and Beloved, all airing on Pearl Magic and Pearl Magic Prime.
“At MultiChoice, we are committed to telling African stories with scale, integrity, and heart,” Kiconco said. “We don’t wait for others to write our history—we own it, we produce it, and we invest in the talent that brings it to life.”
Shaka iLembe Season 2 will run weekly for 12 weeks.
