PICTURE: SUPPLIED
Mnakwethu is currently airing on Mzansi Magic every Tuesday at 8pm and continues to be one of South Africa’s most talked-about reality shows. Season 5 has once again sparked conversations about love, marriage, culture and polygamy as viewers follow families navigating one of the biggest decisions of their lives.
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Hosted by Musa Mseleku, the series follows married men as they ask their wives for permission to take a second wife. The journey is rarely straightforward, with difficult conversations, emotional moments and life-changing decisions shaping every family’s story.
Throughout the process, Musa offers guidance and support as the couples work through these deeply personal conversations. In some cases, he also facilitates introductions between the first wife and a prospective second wife.
We recently sat down with Musa to reflect on the season so far, the conversations it has sparked and what viewers can expect as the journeys continue to unfold.
The season is well underway. How have you found viewers’ reactions so far?
Musa Mseleku: The response has been incredible. Every week people share their opinions and engage with the families’ journeys. Whether they agree or disagree with what they see, the important thing is that the show is encouraging meaningful conversations about relationships and marriage.
This season features families from different backgrounds. Why was it important to showcase that diversity?
Musa: Polygamy exists across different cultures and communities, and each family approaches it differently. It was important for viewers to see that there is no single way of living this lifestyle. Every family’s experience is unique and that is reflected throughout the season.
Many of the conversations on the show are emotional. What goes through your mind when you’re sitting with families during those moments?
Musa: My first responsibility is to listen. These conversations are deeply personal and often life-changing. I always try to make sure that everyone feels heard and respected, even when emotions are running high.
Do you ever find yourself relating to the men or the wives taking part in the process?
Musa: Absolutely. As someone living in a polygamous marriage, I understand many of the challenges both the men and the wives experience. At the same time, I remind myself that every family is different, so I never assume their journey will be the same as mine.
What advice do you give men before they have the conversation about wanting to take another wife?
Musa Mseleku: I always encourage them to be honest from the beginning. Difficult conversations should never be rushed or approached with fear. If you are serious about your decision, you must also be prepared to listen and accept your wife’s feelings and concerns.
Some wives surprise viewers with their reactions. What have you learnt from the women featured on the show this season?
Musa: The women have reminded me how important it is to acknowledge their emotions. Every wife processes the conversation differently, and there is no right or wrong way to feel. Listening with respect is just as important as speaking honestly.
There are often difficult conversations around communication and honesty. Why do you think those two things are so important in relationships?
Musa: Every strong relationship is built on honesty and communication. Problems usually become bigger when people avoid difficult conversations. Even if you don’t agree with each other, you should always be able to speak openly and respectfully.
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Has hosting Mnakwethu changed the way you approach your own relationships at home?
Musa: It has reminded me that every relationship needs continuous effort. Watching other families has reinforced the importance of checking in with one another, listening carefully, and never taking your family for granted.
What conversations do you hope families are having at home after watching each episode?
Musa: I hope people are talking honestly about their own relationships, whether they are monogamous or polygamous. The show is not only about taking another wife. It is also about trust, communication, responsibility and understanding one another.
What’s one thing viewers often misunderstand about the people who take part in the show?
Musa: People sometimes forget that these are real families making real decisions. It is easy to judge from the outside, but every person comes into the process with their own reasons, experiences and hopes for the future.
What has been the most rewarding part of hosting Mnakwethu over the years?
Musa: Seeing conversations around polygamy become more open has been very rewarding. Whether people support it or not, they are now willing to have respectful discussions and learn more about different perspectives.
If viewers could take away one lesson from this season, what would you want it to be?
Musa: I hope viewers remember that every relationship requires commitment, honesty and respect. Those values matter regardless of whether a marriage is monogamous or polygamous.
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