Emotional Victory! Zenande Mfenyana Wins First SAFTA For “Inimba”

South African actress Zenande Mfenyana celebrated a major milestone in her career after winning her first Golden Horn at the South African Film and Television Awards.

Mfenyana took home the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Telenovela for her role in the drama series Inimba during the 19th annual SAFTAs, held over the weekend at the Gallagher Convention Centre.

The prestigious event celebrated the country’s film and television industry, honouring productions released during an extended eligibility period spanning early 2024 to mid-2025.

 Zenande Mfenyana’s Heartfelt Acceptance Speech

Taking to the stage to receive the award, Mfenyana delivered an emotional speech as she thanked God, her family, and the production team behind the show.

“Thank you, God. To God be all the glory, praise, and honour,” she said while accepting the Golden Horn.

The actress also expressed gratitude to her siblings, with one of them joining her on stage during the special moment.

Mfenyana then gave a touching shout-out to her daughter watching from home.

“Thank you, baby. I know you’re watching from home. Mommy did it. All that I do, I do for you.”

Zenande Mfenyana wins BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A TELENOVELA at the SAFTAs for her role as Thumeka Mabandla in Inimba S1#SAFTAs19 pic.twitter.com/v7OeOT2Hbk

— News Live SA (@newslivesa) March 14, 2026

 Zenande Mfenyana’s Powerful Performance in Inimba

Mfenyana earned the accolade for her portrayal of Thumeka Mabandla in Inimba, a gripping telenovela that follows a close-knit family navigating love, ambition, secrets, and rivalries while balancing modern challenges and traditional values.

The series has captured the attention of viewers across the country, with many praising its compelling storylines and layered characters.

Mfenyana’s performance, in particular, has received strong praise from audiences and critics alike, who have pointed to the emotional depth and authenticity she brought to the role.

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The SAFTA win adds to a growing list of accolades for the actress. In 2025, she also won Best Actress in a TV Series at the National Film and Television Awards.

Meanwhile, Inimba also walked away with Most Popular TV Soap or Telenovela, a category decided by public vote.

According to SAFTAs chairperson Kethiwe Ngcobo, the awards remain an important platform to honour the efforts of professionals working both in front of and behind the camera.

“It’s about recognition. It’s about seeing people who worked hard in a very difficult environment in the industry being recognised for the work that they do behind the camera and in front of the camera.”

She added that the event continues to bring together producers, directors, actors and creatives from across the industry in celebration of their work.