The Tradition
Isiko(The Tradition): The Tradition is a gripping tale of resilience, empowerment, and the painful journey of challenging societal norms. It highlights the universal struggle of fighting against oppressive traditions while finding one’s own voice within them.
The story follows Sindiswa, a young woman undergoing the traditional Nkciyo ceremony meant to prepare her for womanhood. But her desire for a better life leads her into the arms of a powerful man whose charm hides dark intentions. Manipulated and betrayed, Sindiswa finds herself trapped in a web of societal expectations, cultural obligations, and personal despair.
Unable to bear the shame and rejection, Sindiswa ultimately takes her own life, leaving her community to grapple with the consequences of clinging to oppressive traditions.
Her tragic story echoes as a powerful reminder of the need to question cultural practices that harm more than heal. Isiko: The Tradition is a poignant narrative about courage, reclaiming one’s agency, and the cost of silence in a culture bound by age-old customs.
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BONGA JIJWADirectorDineo's Case, Breaking Free, The 2 Wives
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BONGA JIJWAWriterThe 2 Wives
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Nosiviwe DlakazelaProducerImpindezelo part 1&2
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BONGA JIJWAProducerBreaking Free, The 2 Wives, Dineo's Case
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Akhanya VakalisaKey Cast"Sindiswa"Dineo's Case, Okwam Kufeziwe
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Project Title (Original Language):Isiko
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Project Type:Feature, Television
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Genres:Drama, Tragedy, Cultural/Social Commentary
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Runtime:48 minutes 26 seconds
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Completion Date:June 20, 2024
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Country of Origin:South Africa
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Country of Filming:South Africa
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Language:Xhosa
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Shooting Format:Digital
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Aspect Ratio:16:9
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:No
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Student Project:No
Distribution Information
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Bay tvDistributorCountry: South AfricaRights: Free TV
Full Name: Bonga Jijwa
Profession: Filmmaker, Producer, Director, Screenwriter, Talent Developer
Company: Founder & CEO of Amabhozza Entertainment
Location: Mount Ayliff, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Career in Filmmaking
Bonga Jijwa is an accomplished filmmaker known for nurturing local talent and producing award-winning films, radio dramas, and music videos. His work primarily focuses on real-life events, using storytelling to inspire and challenge audiences.
In 2019, he founded Amabhozza Entertainment, a non-profit organization specializing in film and music video production, scriptwriting, and talent development. The company has since become a platform for underrepresented voices, offering training programs, community-based film festivals, and talent competitions.
His projects have gained recognition on both local and international platforms. Notably, Dineo’s Case (2025) was broadcast on Cape Town TV and received such high viewership that its screening was extended for months. His film Breaking Free was selected for the Serbest International Film Festival in 2025.
Notable Projects
Dineo’s Case (2025) – Broadcast on Cape Town TV
Breaking Free (2025) – Invited for Serbest International Film Festival
Isiko (2024) – Scheduled for broadcast in May 2025
The Two Wives (2025) – Scheduled for broadcast in May 2025
Ingomso Lam (2024) – Aired on television
Impindezelo 1 & 2 (2023)
Wandenza Mama (2023) – Screened at Chosi Film Festival
Ilungelo Lam (2021) – Won Best Local Film Festival
Kazi Iyozala Nkomoni (2023) – A radio drama aired on Alfred Nzo Community Radio
Awards & Achievements
Ilungelo Lam won Best Local Film Festival
I am Ready To Save won best local film festival
Wandenza Mama was featured at Chosi Film Festival
Breaking Free invited for Serbest International Film Festival (for consideration to participate )
Mission & Vision
Bonga’s work is dedicated to producing high-quality films that inspire, entertain, and resonate with audiences. Through Amabhozza Entertainment, he strives to empower storytellers, support local talent, and showcase South African narratives on a global stage.
Bonga Jijwa continues to push boundaries in South African cinema, using his storytelling to create impactful, thought-provoking content while empowering the next generation of filmmakers.
As a filmmaker, I believe in the power of storytelling to inspire, challenge, and transform. My journey in film is driven by a deep passion for unearthing untold narratives and giving a voice to those often unheard. Through Amabhozza Entertainment, I have dedicated myself to producing films that resonate with audiences by reflecting real-life experiences, cultural heritage, and the complexities of human nature.
I draw inspiration from everyday life, observing the world around me and shaping stories that feel authentic, raw, and emotionally compelling. I am less interested in research-driven narratives and more invested in personal encounters and lived experiences that shape the essence of my work. My approach is deeply intuitive—I trust the story to reveal itself through my interactions with the world.
I am particularly committed to developing local talent and ensuring that South African filmmakers, actors, and creatives have a platform to showcase their skills. My goal is not just to create films but to build a sustainable industry where young storytellers can thrive. This vision extends to my plans of launching a training school for filmmaking, scriptwriting, and editing, giving the next generation the tools they need to tell their own stories.
My films often explore themes of justice, redemption, identity, and resilience, grounded in the realities of African life. Whether through drama, suspense, or human-centered storytelling, I strive to create films that leave a lasting impact, sparking conversations and shifting perspectives.
With upcoming projects like The Final Offering, my ambition remains to elevate South African cinema, pushing beyond traditional narratives and showcasing the depth and diversity of our stories on international platforms. My commitment is to authenticity, excellence, and the continuous evolution of African storytelling.