The glitz and glamour of the 18th South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) shone brightly this past weekend at Gallagher Estate in Midrand, where the much-loved television series ‘Shaka iLembe’ emerged as the star of the night, taking home an astonishing 12 awards. From Best TV Drama to Best Supporting Actor, the show dominated the prestigious event, which celebrates the finest in local film and television.
During the two-night celebration, M-Net and MultiChoice showcased their dominance with a total haul of 46 awards across their DStv channels. Not only did ‘Shaka iLembe’ lead the charge, but the night also saw Netflix South Africa’s festive comedy series ‘Yoh! Christmas’ and the beloved Outlaws telenovela on Showmax receiving top honours, reflecting a wide range of programming that resonated with audiences.
The SABC also made its presence felt, winning 12 awards across various categories, while Amazon Prime Video swept away seven trophies, including five for their critically acclaimed feature film, ‘The Fragile King’, which notably secured the award for Best Feature Film. eMedia’s e.tv, despite bringing home four awards, celebrated another consecutive win for its popular soap opera ‘Scandal’, which claimed victory in the public voting category.
Among the notable highlights of the evening was the award for Best Educational Programme, which went to the poignant documentary ‘Khoekhoe Saga: The Story of South African Herders’. This series delves into the rich history and culture of the Khoekhoe nation, shedding light on the legacy of a community often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Director Johan Abrahams expressed his gratitude for the accolade, crediting a remarkable crew and the hauntingly beautiful music composed by Khoi musician Garfy Erasmus for enhancing the documentary’s impact.
“We are glad that they gave us the recognition,” Abrahams said. “I worked with a really great crew, including cameraman Shameel Albertain and sound technician Mono Wayde, who provided exceptional sound. The music that was specially composed for the series brought an emotional depth to it, and presenters Joline Matthews and Rehanna Abrahams were instrumental in helping tell this important story.”
The evening was a testament to the incredible talent and creativity within the South African entertainment industry, with a range of nominees and winners showcasing the diverse voices and stories that define South African television today.