Anesu Mirisawu
ENTERTAINMENT WRITER
POPULAR private television station 3Ktv, has reached another significant milestone.
This comes after most of its productions have earned nominations in different categories at the upcoming Zimbabwe Annual Film and Television Awards (ZAFTAs), scheduled for November 30 in Harare.
Popular series Bundu alone, fresh off celebrating its 100th episode, has four nominations.
“These nominations are a testament to the relentless dedication of our team and the profound impact Bundu has made. We are honored by this recognition,” said Eddie Ndhlovu, Bundu’s writer and co-director.
Known for its strong environmental message, the series is a contender for the prestigious Outstanding Television Production award, competing against Inkaba, Love and Reality, and Drug Mafia.
Its cast and crew have also been acknowledged, with Tendai Madzviti nominated for Outstanding Actor, Mercy Nyawasha for Outstanding Actress, and Andile Ndlovu for Outstanding Achievement in Editing.
Airing every Wednesday at 19:00 on 3Ktv and available on DStv channel 293, Bundu recently celebrated two years on the channel.
“3Ktv has provided a valuable platform for Bundu to reach and resonate with audiences nationwide,” Ndhlovu said.
“In a challenging media landscape, where local dramas often struggle to maintain momentum, Bundu has engaged viewers with authentic storylines that reflect daily Zimbabwean life.”
With eight successful seasons, Bundu continues to set a high standard for Zimbabwean television. This year, 3Ktv dominates the ZAFTAs nominations, with several shows and talent from the network in contention.
Other nominated 3Ktv shows include Inkaba, Village 4, Bundu, and Love and Reality, while popular presenter Mazwi, last year’s Outstanding Television Presenter winner, returns with a nomination alongside fellow presenters Oslie (from Diplomat Couche) and Joyle (from The Design Show).
Actors and actresses from across 3Ktv productions are recognized in various categories, including John Mabuyane from Inkaba and Percy Soko from Village 4, who join Bundu’s Madzviti in the Outstanding Actor category.
“We are thrilled with these nominations, which affirm the quality of our programming. It inspires us to keep raising the bar,” said 3Ktv’s Head of Programming, Lucia Kanyongo.
At last year’s inaugural ZAFTAs, 3Ktv made a memorable impact, with Mazwi winning Outstanding Television Presenter for Zim Uncovered, Lucian David named Outstanding Television Actor, and Faking It awarded Outstanding Television Series.
The station’s Amanxeba collected multiple awards, including Outstanding Directing, Outstanding Editing, Outstanding Television Actress, and Popular Television Series.
Bundu also took home Outstanding Achievement in Wardrobe and Costume Design, while Hakata won for Outstanding Indigenous Culture, Language, and Tradition.
The ZAFTAs aim to honour excellence and celebrate the contributions of actors, directors, producers, writers, presenters, technicians, and other key players in Zimbabwe’s film and television industry.