Zee Zonke: Bringing Localized IsiZulu Content to South African Audiences

Zee Zonke, a South African channel by Indian telecaster Zee Limited, plans to produce locally made content in isiZulu for local viewers. Known for dubbing Indian shows in isiZulu, the channel quickly rose to top rankings among pay-tv channels. About 27.5 million South Africans speak or understand isiZulu, making the channel's initiative widely popular.

Zee Zonke, a brainchild of Indian telecaster Zee Limited, has captured South African viewers with its localized isiZulu content. Initially thriving on dubbing popular Indian shows, the channel now plans to produce content made by locals for local audiences. The channel has rapidly climbed the ranks to become one of the most-watched pay-tv channels.

Launched a year ago, Zee Zonke translates to 'Zee for All' in isiZulu and caters specifically to the majority isiZulu-speaking community in South Africa. 'We took the plunge, and the rest is history,' says Somnath Malakar, CEO of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (Sub-Saharan Africa & Indian Ocean Islands).

As almost 27.5 million people out of the 62 million population in South Africa speak or understand isiZulu, the channel's innovative content strategy has proven to be a successful risk. The channel is set to diversify its offering with homegrown stories to better connect with its audience.

(With inputs from agencies.)