Cape Town’s multi-talented 23-year-old reality TV star, Sweet Guluva, has officially been crowned the winner of Big Brother Mzansi Season 5, titled Umlilo, walking away with the grand prize of R2 million.
The announcement, made on Sunday, March 23 (2025), ended an intense 10-week season filled with drama, strategy, and unforgettable moments.
A star is born: Akhonamathemba Mbele’s triumph
Sweet Guluva, whose real name is Akhonamathemba Mbele, captivated audiences from the moment he entered the house.
The open-minded student, model, artist, footballer, and barber from Cape Town became a fan favorite, trending widely on social media as viewers rallied behind his charisma, creativity, and unwavering determination.
His journey was marked by numerous victories, including winning the Week 1 Head of House games and dominating multiple challenges, such as the Lottostar Friday Night Arena Games in Weeks 1, 7, and 9.
His blend of creativity, charm, and determination outdid his fellow housemates. One of his standout moments included winning the Robertsons Master Braai Challenge on Day 52 and the Chillers Punch Task alongside housemates Nate and Mshini.
His close bond with fellow contestant Ash-ley Ogle also became a defining storyline of the season.
Fierce competition and fan strategy
The fifth season featured 24 housemates from across South Africa, with viewers voting to keep their favorites in the game.
While Sweet Guluva emerged victorious, the competition was fierce. Early evictees included Jojo (first evicted), Nate, and Nsuku, while Uyanda secured the runner-up position.
- Jojo, dubbed the “underdog mastermind,” shocked viewers with her strategic gameplay, controlling the house “like a chess master.”
- Nate played a silent yet effective game, strategically influencing dynamics behind the scenes.
- Nsuku proved her resilience after entering the house as a late addition, quickly establishing herself as a confident force.
- Uyanda, the relentless “fighter,” showcased his determination to win until the final moments.
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Sweet Guluva’s unstoppable journey
From Day 1, Sweet Guluva’s competitive spirit never wavered. His ability to win critical tasks and maintain strong alliances kept him at the forefront of the game.
Big Brother celebrated his victory on X (formerly Twitter, stating: “There you have it, Mzansi. uManqoba has emerged victorious. Sweet Guluva is officially the winner of #BBMzansi Umlilo season 5. Big congrats is’gebengu esingena criminal record! The cash is yours, the heat was real, and now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of all that hard work. 💰🔥”
A life-changing win
Sweet Guluva’s victory not only secures him financial freedom but also cements his status as a rising star in South Africa’s entertainment scene. Fans and celebrities alike celebrated his win, with many praising his authenticity and versatility.
As the Big Brother Mzansi team declared: “From beginning to end, Sweet Guluva was a force to be reckoned with in the Umlilo game.”
For more details on Sweet Guluva’s journey, visit his official profile: dstv.com.
Watch the winning moment below:
