Moja Love: Eddie Ndhlovu’s Latest Film Set to Elevate Zimbabwean Cinema

In a major development for the Zimbabwean film industry, Talent of Steel (TOS), led by acclaimed filmmaker Eddie Ndhlovu, is gearing up to start production on its latest movie, Moja Love. Slated for a March commencement, the film boasts an impressive lineup of talented actors, including Benhildah Kandawasvika, Collin Ncube, Anne Gwasira, Charity Mahowa-Matavo, Andile Ndhlovu, Anele Ndhlovu, and Tazdeo Nzuda. With Talent Chitauro as the producer and Andre Ndlovu directing, Moja Love is expected to be a landmark production in the country’s cinematic landscape.

The film’s production coincides with the launch of Zimbabwe’s five-year National Film and Television Strategy, a comprehensive blueprint designed to rejuvenate the industry. The initiative, backed by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, has further motivated Ndhlovu and his team to contribute meaningfully to the sector’s growth.

Moja Love is a low-budget project financed by Talent of Steel, with an open-budget model that maximizes creative freedom while maintaining high production standards. Ndhlovu highlighted the importance of the film in sustaining Zimbabwe’s growing film industry.

“With a surge of films emerging from Zimbabwe last year, Moja Love will contribute significantly to this momentum, fostering industry growth. A thriving film sector attracts potential investors, leading to more opportunities for filmmakers and creatives in the region,” said Ndhlovu.

The film, which is primarily targeted at a Zimbabwean audience, is set to premiere in May on local television stations before expanding its reach beyond the country’s borders. In a press statement, Ndhlovu described Moja Love as an authentic Zimbabwean story told through the lens of the Shona language. The narrative is inspired by real-life events that shape the socio-economic fabric of the nation, touching on themes of love, family, and resilience. Principal photography will take place at Lake Chivero in collaboration with ZimParks.

The movie’s synopsis paints a deeply emotional and culturally rich story. It begins with a kugova nhumbi ceremony, a traditional practice where the belongings of the deceased, Betina, are shared among her relatives. This solemn event is attended by her elder sister, Mai Goddy, her brother Ketai, his twin Fiona, their younger sister Rosina, and Betina’s two children, Lucky (14) and Zodwa (12). The gathering soon turns tense as the family debates who will take custody of the orphaned children. While Rosina dreams of offering them a better life in the city, Mai Goddy asserts her right to keep them, having cared for Betina during her illness. The resulting conflict unearths deep-seated grievances and tests family bonds.

As the drama unfolds, the children find themselves caught between opposing forces. Ultimately, Mai Goddy is given custody, despite her questionable ability to provide a stable home. The story follows Lucky and Zodwa as they navigate their new reality, relying on the support of their Aunt Fiona and Uncle Ketai.

Director Andre Ndlovu emphasized that Moja Love is more than just a story of loss; it is a testament to resilience and the African spirit of Ubuntu. The film delves into themes of love, responsibility, and the struggles faced by orphans in a society burdened with economic hardships.

Eddie Ndhlovu’s impressive career has seen him helm a variety of successful projects, including the soap opera Wenera, the award-winning Bundu TV series, and the feature film Sores of Emmanuel. His works have gained recognition both locally and internationally, making him a pivotal figure in Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry.

With Moja Love, Ndhlovu continues to push the boundaries of Zimbabwean cinema, offering audiences a compelling and culturally resonant narrative. As the film gears up for production, expectations are high for what promises to be a powerful and thought-provoking addition to Zimbabwe’s growing film industry.