JOHANNESBURG (Azat TV) – South Africa’s beloved telenovela, «Inimba,» launched its highly anticipated second season on Monday, March 2, 2026, on Mzansi Magic DStv Channel 161 at 8:30 PM. The new season immediately plunged viewers into heightened drama with the introduction of Azande Ngcukana, a new character whose arrival is set to unravel family loyalties and spark a silent war for succession within the powerful Ngcukana empire.
The return of «Inimba» has been met with significant excitement, amplified by the promise of deeper plotlines and the strategic addition of Azande, portrayed by fan-favourite actor Siya Raymond Sepotokele. Azande, cousin to Lazarus Ngcukana (Loyiso MacDonald), is described as a force for chaos and destruction, threatening to ignite tensions and expose long-buried secrets. His character is anticipated to be a complex, layered figure whose motives will keep audiences guessing, rather than a straightforward villain, as hinted by insiders.
Azande Ngcukana’s Arrival Sparks Succession Battle
The new season of «Inimba» began with what was supposed to be a celebration of love, bringing together the families of Zoleka Bikitsha (Lunathi Mampofu) and Lazarus Ngcukana. However, Azande’s unexpected arrival swiftly disrupts this peace, igniting a silent war over the Ngcukana empire’s succession. Siya Raymond Sepotokele, known for his commanding screen presence in productions like «Law, Love & Betrayal S1» and «The River S3&S4,» expressed his enthusiasm for joining the cast. «It feels amazing to be part of Inimba and working with these great people,» Sepotokele stated, adding that he is «looking forward to being back working on a production that will personify the magic that exists in Mzansi.» He hopes viewers will «see and appreciate what I will be doing with this new character,» according to Glamour.co.za and TimesLive.
Returning Cast Navigates New Challenges in Inimba Season 2
Beyond the central conflict introduced by Azande, the second season sees the existing characters navigating significant personal and professional challenges. Thumeka (Zenande Mfenyana) continues her journey of moving on from grief and redefining her dignity. Hlathi (Sisanda Hewana) grapples with guilt and the complexities of fatherhood, while Sydney (Siyabonga Shibe) seeks redemption within the tech industry. Qhawe (Ayakha Ntunja) demonstrates stronger determination in her career growth, adding further layers to the intricate family dynamics.
Inimba’s Acclaimed Storytelling and SAFTA Nominations
«Inimba» has garnered significant critical acclaim, cementing its status as one of South Africa’s most beloved telenovelas. The show has received five nominations for the upcoming 2026 South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs), including prestigious nods for Best Telenovela, Best Supporting Actress in a Telenovela (Zenande Mfenyana), Best Achievement in Scriptwriting, Best Achievement in Art Direction – Soap/Telenovela, and Most Popular Soap/Telenovela. This follows Zenande Mfenyana’s win for Best Actress at the 2025 National Film and Television Awards for her powerful portrayal of Thumeka, underscoring the series’ commitment to impeccable talent and storytelling.
The consistent critical recognition and the strategic introduction of a complex, disruptive character like Azande underscore «Inimba’s» commitment to evolving its narrative and maintaining its stronghold on South African television, signaling a deliberate effort to deepen its cultural impact beyond initial success.