A Bride's Price

Khanyo is in love but lobola negotiations will have her weighing her heart against her faith.

- Genevieve Terblanche

Recently arrived church leader Pastor Ndamase (Mlamli Ningiza) rocked his sweet friend Khanyo Bhengu’s (Nqobile Ndlovu) world and her heart on Monday 21 October when he told her that she was the wife that God had shown him, the one he came to Umbumbulu to find. And now the Bhengu and Ndamase families will be coming together as they negotiate an official proposal, lobola, a dowry for the bride and more between the end of October and start of November. The show’s take on Zulu cultural practices is always intriguing, so we asked headwriter Caroline Doherty what viewers can expect from the story arc.

What was one of the interesting things that came up in the writers’ room?

It is always fascinating when we tackle subjects like this in the story room. Culture is a fluid thing, as the demands of a changing society have affected culture and its practices. We spent a lot of time discussing whether we should include the young men in the negotiations. Previously lobola had been reserved only for the elders. However, now it is accepted for them to be in the room as long as they do not speak.

What is the purpose of lobola negotiations?