In a blast from the past, the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has brought back the popular 90s educational shows “Soul City” and “Soul Buddyz”.
While these classic programmes won’t be airing on TV like before, fans can now enjoy them on the streaming platform SABC+.
“Soul City” first captured hearts and minds when it debuted in 1994.
Through a series of 12 invigorating seasons, “Soul City” tackled some of the pressing issues in the country and the broader region, including mother and child health, HIV/AIDS prevention and care, substance abuse, violence against women and girls, disability access, teen sexual health and rights, financial literacy and active citizenship.
Late actress Nandi Nyembe and veteran actress Lillian Dube brought to life the characters of nurses Sister Lizzie and Sister Bettina, who showed viewers the realities of nursing in townships.
David Dennis also won the audience’s affection with his moving portrayal of Sol Grootboom, a gentle character living with HIV/Aids.
Despite increased awareness of HIV/AIDS, some regions in South Africa still struggle with high infection rates.
Meanwhile, “Soul Buddyz”, which debuted in 2000, revolved around a group of children who hang out in a park after school.
Interwoven into the drama are serious issues which children deal with daily, including: AIDS, relationships, sexuality, bullying, abuse, corporal punishment, road safety and other accidents like burns and drowning and dealing with disability – especially the rights of children with disability.
To continue the legacy of “Soul City” and “Soul Buddyz”, the Soul City Institute for Social Justice has announced a new programme titled “Shayi’ndlela” (Turn the Tide).
This groundbreaking 13-part television drama series is set to launch in 2026 and aims to spark crucial national conversations about issues such as gender, power and violence.
“This is more than just a return to edutainment for Soul City, it’s the beginning of a movement to shift the culture of violence in South Africa,” said Phinah Kodisang, CEO of Soul City Institute.
“With the generous support of FCDO (Commonwealth and Development Office) through the What Works II Programme, we are able to bring ‘Shayi’ndlela’ to life not just on screen, but in classrooms, communities and homes.
“This initiative will challenge harmful gender norms, support parents, empower girls through Rise Clubs, and work with boys to build a safer, more just society for all. We are proud to be part of a global movement rooted in evidence, activism and the belief that change is possible,” ended Kodisang.
