What to Watch in Southern Africa This Month

In this month’s movies and TV guide for Southern Africa, we have a sci-fi thriller, a documentary on the life of South African photographer Ernest Cole, and more.

A still from Ubuthe Uzobuya.

'Ubuthe Uzobuya' provides a glimpse into the lives of individuals who have been ghosted by their spouses.

Photo courtesy of Showmax.

We have a wide variety of content to stream from Southern Africa for the month of December. There’s a web series that explores the realities of township life (Ifindo), a reality television show where ghosted partners go to reconnect with their spouses (Ubuthe Uzobuya) and some sporting action in the form of the 15-episode docuseries, The All Blacks: In Their Own Words. Dig in and enjoy what we have on offer.

‘Ubuthe Uzobuya’ (South Africa)


This reality television series seeks to assist in reconciling spouses who were left behind by their partners. Viewers are treated to host Tshepo Maseko’s unflinching dedication to helping people out as different scenarios play out throughout the series' 13 episodes. “Ultimately, it highlights a truth about human nature: we can be quite selfish at times,” Maseko said in an interview about the show’s impact.

Where to watch: Showmax

'Ifindo' (South Africa)


Set in the township of Pimville in Soweto, Ifindo is a web series that explores what happens when a terrible accident threatens to permanently ruin the lives of three best friends, who are also neighbors. The series stars the likes of Tebogo Khalo (Rhythm City), Zinhle Mabena (Isibaya), and Keke Mphuthi (The Throne), and is produced by Tumi Maimela.

Where to watch: YouTube

‘Umjolo: The Gone Girl’ (South Africa)


Umjolo: The Gone Girl, is the first of a four-part anthology under the Umjolo banner, being produced by Stained Glass TV and directed by Fikile Mogodi, also known as “Mr. Fiks.” Umjolo: The Gone Girl tells the story of Zanele (Sibusisiwe Jili), a woman with an almost perfect life who is struggling to find love. Her feelings get altered forever after a doctor’s appointment, and she faces the possibility of losing everything she’s worked hard for. The film also stars Kay Sibiya, Menzi Biyela and Kgomotso Christopher.

Where to watch: Netflix

'Fatsani: A Tale of Survival' (Malawi)


Directed by Gift Sukez Sukali, this film follows a young girl who lives with her grandmother and ends up having to sell bananas in the streets to survive since her school had to close due to sanitation problems and corruption. Fatsani: A Tale of Survival was Malawi’s official submission for the 94th Academy Awards under the Best International Feature Film category. It stars Hannah Sukali as Fatsani, Edwin Chonde as the corrupt school principal, Mr. Mussa, and Joyce Mhango as Fatsani’s favorite teacher, Mrs. Phiri.

Where to watch: YouTube

‘The All Blacks: In Their Own Words’ (South Africa)


New Zealand’s rugby team, The All Blacks, are certified giants of the sport. This 15-part collection offers unrestricted access to the team during their challenging season in 2022, as well as their loss to South Africa’s Springboks during the 2023 World Cup. The series is divided into three parts: Greatness, All Blacks In Their Own Words, and Black Ferns: A Redemption.

Where to watch: Showmax

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