Sue Nyathi Says Harare Is Full of ‘Jonasi Gomoras’ as Netflix’s The Polygamist Sparks Conversations on Modern Relationships

Zimbabwean author Sue Nyathi has shared the inspiration behind her bestselling novel that became the hit Netflix drama series The Polygamist, saying the story reflects the realities of many modern relationships in Harare and beyond. The acclaimed writer believes that while polygamy has long existed in African societies, today’s version often takes the form of secret affairs and hidden relationships rather than open family structures. Her comments have attracted significant attention as the 22-episode Netflix series continues to captivate audiences across the world. The show’s compelling storyline has sparked widespread discussions about marriage, infidelity, family dynamics and personal responsibility. As viewers continue to connect with the drama, Nyathi says the fictional story is rooted in real experiences she has observed throughout her life.

Speaking during an interview on Star FM’s TXO show hosted by DJ Mox, Nyathi explained that the inspiration for The Polygamist came from her own experiences growing up and later living in Harare. She revealed that she was already familiar with traditional polygamy because members of her own family practised it openly. According to the author, her maternal grandfather had five wives while her great-grandfather had eleven wives, making the concept something she understood from a young age. However, she noticed a significant difference after relocating from Bulawayo to Harare. Instead of open and transparent polygamous families, she encountered many married men who maintained secret relationships commonly referred to as “small houses.”

Nyathi said these hidden relationships became the foundation of the story she eventually wrote. She explained that she was struck by how many men publicly presented themselves as being in monogamous marriages while privately maintaining multiple romantic relationships. In her view, the secrecy and deception surrounding these affairs create emotional pain and instability for everyone involved. She contrasted this with traditional polygamy, where additional marriages were generally acknowledged by all family members and the wider community. According to Nyathi, honesty and transparency make a significant difference in how relationships are experienced and understood.

The author made it clear that she does not oppose polygamy itself but strongly criticizes dishonesty in relationships. She argued that anyone choosing a polygamous lifestyle should do so openly and responsibly. Nyathi believes that a man who wants multiple wives should have the financial resources, emotional maturity and willingness to be transparent with everyone involved. She also suggested that those interested in practising polygamy should seek guidance from people who have managed such family structures successfully. In her opinion, openness allows individuals to make informed decisions, while secrecy often leads to betrayal and broken trust.

At the same time, Nyathi encouraged people who choose monogamous relationships to remain committed to that path. She explained that every type of relationship has its own strengths and challenges and that success depends largely on honesty and commitment. Rather than comparing different relationship models, she believes individuals should focus on remaining faithful to the choices they make. According to the author, many of today’s relationship problems arise when people fail to honour the commitments they have voluntarily entered into. Her advice emphasizes personal responsibility instead of blaming one particular relationship structure.

Nyathi also reflected on the role women played in traditional polygamous families, highlighting differences between past and present practices. She explained that in many traditional communities, the first wife often participated in the process of welcoming additional wives into the family. This happened openly, allowing everyone involved to understand the family arrangement from the beginning. By comparison, she believes modern secret relationships remove the opportunity for informed consent and create unnecessary conflict. For Nyathi, the absence of openness is what distinguishes today’s hidden affairs from historical forms of polygamy.

When asked why she frequently writes about relationships and family life, Nyathi described herself as a “self-anthropologist” who documents the society around her. She said she wants future generations to read her books decades from now and gain a deeper understanding of the social issues that shaped Zimbabwe during her lifetime. According to the author, relationships are central to every community because families form the foundation of society. By writing about love, marriage, conflict and family dynamics, she believes she is preserving an important record of contemporary life. Her stories therefore serve not only as entertainment but also as reflections of changing cultural values and social realities.

Nyathi also defended today’s young generation, often referred to as Ama2K, against criticism that they are responsible for society’s moral decline. She argued that young people are products of the environment created by previous generations and should not carry all the blame for current social challenges. Instead of focusing only on the visible problems, she encouraged society to examine the deeper causes that influence young people’s behaviour. In her view, addressing the roots of these issues is far more productive than simply criticizing the outcomes. Her comments reflect a broader belief that families and communities share responsibility for shaping future generations.

The success of The Polygamist has also been strengthened by what Nyathi believes is exceptional casting. She praised the performance of South African actor Sdumo Mtshali, who portrays the lead character, Jonasi Gomora. According to her, the actor perfectly captured the charm and complexity of a man whose personal choices ultimately contribute to his downfall. Nyathi linked Jonasi’s story to biblical teachings about temptation, saying that the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh and pride have led many men astray throughout history. She believes the series ultimately reminds viewers that life is shaped by the choices individuals make and that honesty, accountability and respect are essential in every relationship. As The Polygamist continues to attract audiences around the world, Sue Nyathi’s insights highlight why the story resonates so strongly with viewers, offering a powerful exploration of love, family and the consequences of living a double life.