Coming up on
Isitha: The Enemy on Tuesday 25 June 2024:
Dumisani Dlamini as Ntsimbi.
Dumisani, who played Crocodile in the classic musical film Sarafina!, was most recently seen on TV in Mzansi Magic's Isibaya as Mbodla who he portrayed for seven seasons.
He also starred on the e.tv anthology series eHostela, playing Marocks in Season 1 and Celemba in Season 2.
Here's a close-up on his new alter ego in Isitha:
Ntsimbi, born into royalty, became the chief of a small village in KZN at 21.
Raised by his single father, Chief Ngomezulu, after his mother Ziphora's death, Ntsimbi inherited his father's love for livestock and the village.
While Chief Ngomezulu was a man of integrity, Ntsimbi diverged by engaging in criminal activities for easy money, secretly orchestrating taxi killings, hijackings and heists in KZN.
Despite his ruthless methods, Ntsimbi maintains a spotless public image, masking his criminal undertakings with the help of a loyal entourage of young men who execute his dirty work.
Raised by the senior royal helper, MaSkhosana, Ntsimbi developed a respect for elderly women and their ways. MaSkhosana's meticulous nature and love for tea significantly influenced Ntsimbi, fostering his appreciation for tradition and simple pleasures.
Despite his wealth and love for money, Ntsimbi appreciates a simple life, blending easily with ordinary citizens. He enjoys spending time in his village, even as he enjoys showing off his riches when needed.
Ntsimbi gained fame in KZN through his extensive taxi business and tenderpreneur ventures, using a servant as a front. He strategically expanded his business empire, which includes numerous taxi routes, a fleet of sports cars, and countless properties.
He clashed with Rebecca Mabuza (Rebs) over a cow vaccination tender, resulting in the theft of hundreds of his cows.
The cows, critical to his wealth, were intended for the tender, and Rebs' actions not only stole his livestock but also jeopardised his financial stability.
Anyone who interferes with Ntsimbi's money becomes his enemy, and he is known to be ruthless in protecting his interests.
Ntsimbi's duality as a traditional leader and a modern tycoon makes him a complex and influential figure in KZN.
His story is one of power, ambition, and the delicate balance between maintaining a public image and concealing a hidden life of crime.