Stokvel is a comedy series set in the vibrant and exciting world of stokvels. The stokvel has been a part of African culture for decades – a place where friends meet for companionship; good times; and a social way of saving money. This much-loved institution is the dynamic backdrop for the continuing activities of two stokvels in Diepkloof, Soweto.
Stokvel is an award-winning show, having received several awards, most recently in 2010 for the best comedy director; best comedy ensemble cast; and best comedy actor, Tshamano Sebe (Biza). This is the third award received by Tshamano for
Stokvel. (The inaugural
South African Comedy Awards in 2007 and
SAFTA 2007 and 2010).
Stokvel has, on several occasions, won at least seven
SAFTA Awards in the best comedy category.
James Ngcobo returns to the role of Mojo Khumalo who, along with his beautiful wife, Lerata (Manaka Ranaka), is the lynchpin for the two stokvels whose adventures are depicted in the series. Mojo is the chairman of the men’s stokvel, Majakathata, and Lerata is the treasurer of the women’s society, Sweet Harmony.
Both stokvels are made up of colorful characters played by an accomplished ensemble of actors. All the characters who proved to be so popular in the previous two series are back for more fun; gossip; and misadventure.
Sweet Harmony is chaired by the pastor’s wife, Masechaba Moletsane (Dieketseng Mnisi). Other members include local shebeen queen, Hazel Dube (Thembi Mtshali-Jones) and Ayanda Twala (Andrea Dondolo) - a township tourism operator and Lerata’s best friend. And who can forget sweet, naïve (and rather clueless) Pinkie Serobe (Lele Ledwaba)?
Mojo belongs to Majakathata – a struggling stokie whose bank account is permanently on life support. This doesn’t stop Mojo and his friends from constantly thinking of new ways to find new members and make more money. Budgets Naledi (Ntobeko Rwanqa) is the treasurer of this group. He thinks he knows everything there is to know about finances – but the stokie’s books tell a different story. Their funds aren’t helped by the fact that Biza (Tshamano Sebe) never pays his contributions. Biza is a character found in almost every stokie – the ‘baaidjievanger’. He never has money or a job and constantly finds new and more inventive ways to get other people to buy him a drink! The most recent addition to Majakathata is the soft-hearted rugby player, Philane Phiri (Sello Sebotsane). He’s quick on the field, but off the field – to the dismay of the guys - he is even quicker to break into tears.
Stokvel is directed by Vusi Dibakwane and James Ngcobo.
Stokvel is created for SABC2 by Penguin Films, under the artistic direction of Roberta Durrant and Joe Mafela.