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Sweet Guluva, whose real name is Akhonamathemba Mbele, won Big Brother Mzansi Season 5, titled “Umlilo,” on Sunday, March 23, 2025. The 23-year-old from Cape Town walked away with the grand prize of R2 million after a dramatic 10-week season filled with twists, challenges, and fierce competition.
More On Sweet Guluva
Known for his charisma, resilience, and authenticity, Sweet Guluva captured the hearts of viewers and emerged victorious over fellow finalists Uyanda (runner-up), Nsuku, Nate, and Jojo. His journey in the house was marked by strategic gameplay, strong alliances, and a vibrant personality that made him a fan favorite, with support from celebrities like DJ Zinhle and Cassper Nyovest amplifying his campaign.
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Big Brother Mzansi’s Background
Big Brother Mzansi is a South African reality TV show based on the international Big Brother franchise, where contestants, known as housemates, live together in an isolated house under constant surveillance, competing for a cash prize. Season 5, dubbed “Umlilo” (meaning “fire” in Zulu), aired from January 19, 2025, to March 23, 2025, and was hosted by Lawrence Maleka. It’s produced by Red Pepper Pictures and broadcast on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161), with 24/7 live streaming available on DStv Stream.
Season 5 Housemates
This season started with 20 housemates—10 men and 10 women—entering the house on launch night. The theme “Umlilo” promised intense drama, fiery challenges, and unpredictable twists, which it delivered through tasks like the Head of House (HoH) games, wager challenges, and surprise evictions. The house itself was a vibrant, colorful space designed to reflect South African culture, featuring bold patterns, a diary room for confessions, and hidden cameras capturing every move.
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Season 5 Highlights
Key highlights from Season 5 included the dynamic rivalries, alliances, and standout moments like Sweet Guluva’s leadership as HoH multiple times, which solidified his strategic edge. The finale saw five housemates—Sweet Guluva, Uyanda, Nsuku, Nate, and Jojo—competing for the R2 million prize after surviving evictions that whittled down the group. Public voting played a huge role, with fans rallying behind their favorites via SMS and online platforms.
Sweet Guluva’s win on March 23, 2025, marked the culmination of a season praised for its entertainment value and cultural resonance, reflecting Mzansi’s diversity and spirit. Past seasons, like Season 3 (won by Mpho Wabadimo in 2022) and Season 4 (won by McJunior in 2024), set the stage for this installment’s success, but “Umlilo” stood out for its high stakes and viewer engagement.
Congratulations to Sweet Guluva on his well-earned win!
