Diana Kinyanjui 
Brace yourselves for a NEW reality TV spectacular that will take you on a local taste adventure!
G2 Connection and Trace Studios is proud to announce the launch of “Nyama Battle”, an original local new series where everyday cooks battle it out against each other in a series of thrilling challenges and surprising twists to become the Nyama Battle champion.
Nyama Battle is not just a cooking competition — it’s a celebration of our South African cultures and personal drives, showcasing the incredible potential that lies within each of us. As the contestants battle it out, they’ll form unexpected bonds, lifelong friendships, and discover hidden talents they never knew they had. It’s a fiery mix of passion, skill, and street food flavours that promises to leave South Africans hungry for more.
In this thrilling competition,12 contestants from diverse backgrounds will roll up their sleeves and fire up their grills to prove their skills, resilience and determination to secure their street food business future and win over the hearts (and taste buds) of an entire nation.
Guiding them on this sizzling journey are two culinary powerhouses: Chef Moses Moloi, whose soul-stirring dishes pay homage to his township roots. And Chef Keegan Maistry, a fusion maestro who turns tradition into innovation, all inspired by the magic of his mother’s kitchen. Together, they mentor the contestants as they split into two rival teams, blending grit, creativity, and heritage in this taste battle.
Adding to the spice is the inimitable Lebogang Tlokana (The Funny Chef), whose wit and energy keep things cooking behind the scenes. With her charm commanding the action, and the expert guidance of world-class chefs, these contestants will compete to create dishes that not only wow the judges but also celebrate the rich flavours of our growing South African street food culture from delicious Kota’s to gourmet smash burgers and local inspired tortillas.
Lebogang will guide viewers through each exhilarating challenge, encouraging creativity and camaraderie as teams or individuals whip out mouth-watering dishes under intense pressure.
In an interview with Showbiz Scope, Lebogang Tlokana (The Funny Chef) shared her reason for agreeing to host “Nyama Battle”
“First and foremost, “Nyama Battle” just the name itself speaks volumes.”
said Lebogang
“When someone says “Nyama,” the first thing you think about is meat, then you wonder what the show is really about – you ask yourself different questions until you are told what it is about. I love the inclusivity of it. I love how they brought South African together, from different cultures and races. I love how everyone brought their A game, especially in the group work. You’d figure that being South African is quite amazing, especially when we’re under pressure and competing – you’ll realize that we’re all just the same.”
Armed with wit and wisdom, she not only offers culinary insights but also keeps the competition lively, engaging both contestants and audiences alike. From surprise ingredients to nail biting eviction, Lebogang’s vibrant presence and humorous approach will transform the kitchen into a thrilling arena where teamwork and talent shine.
“My role is to keep things going. As a host, you want to know what’s happens in the contestants’ heads.”
shares Lebogang
“You have to fish it out of them. If they are in distress, you have to figure out what’s stressing them out. You lead the platform for them to be completely honest and be their authentic selves so they can bring out their A game on because it’s a competition after all. I’m behind the scenes and rooting for all of them.”
Nyama Battle brought to you by G2 Connection, in collaboration with Trace Studios, HD Global, and a star-studded lineup of sponsors:
Captain Morgan:
“Captain Morgan is thrilled to bring the spice to Nyama Battle for its debut season. The show perfectly embodies the spirit of our Dunk, Munch, Sip campaign, which is all about bringing creativity and individuality – However you Spice, Spice on. We can’t wait to see the creativity and passion that will come out at Nyama Battle. This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate South Africa’s street food culture, and we are proud to be a part of it.”
shared Tebogo Moganedi
Gromer Eezee Eggz:
“We are elated to be part of this exhilarating food reality show, Nyama Battle. This show resonates with us, as our business is rooted in deep heritage and brings various cultures and people together who work for Gromer similarly to Nyama Battle depicting our diverse South African culture and heritage through flavours and styles of food.”
said Ingrid Gromer
Nissan
“The Nyama Battle embodies the spirit of resilience, creativity, and ambition that we celebrate at Nissan. Just like our Magnite — this competition champions individuals who dare to pursue their dreams and aspirations. Through our ‘Go Your Own Way’ campaign, we support the entrepreneurial spirit and determination that mirrors the contestants’ journey as they achieve progress, defy ordinary, and turn challenges into opportunities. We’re proud to power the journey of passion and potential, inspiring others to embrace their unique paths to success while celebrating the vibrancy and diverse cultures of South Africa”
said Tessa Cooke, General Manager: Brand and Customer Experience Africa, Nissan SA.
And RAMA, MAQ, Tru-Cape Fruit, and Beef & Lamb SA
G2 Connection:
“We’re excited to bring this local homegrown reality street food show to our audiences. Nyama Battle is not just about entertainment but inspiring and educating other food lovers in the community to follow their food dreams and launch their own food truck or street food business”
said Gail Parrish and Virginia Hollis, G2 Connection.
Trace Studios: “The industry has been waiting for new locally created and produced content, and we believe Nyama Battle represents an exciting future for South African entertainment to share it with the world.” Says Wilna van Sckalkwyk, Trace Studios.
When Showbiz Scope asked Lebogang Tlokana (The Funny Chef), why should viewers out there be glued to Nyama Battle? She had this to say:
“People should watch the show because it’s different, fresh, hip, and hype. Foodies, more specifically, should watch the show because they’ll get to learn so much – not only from our chefs but from the contestants as well because they also know a lot about food. You can take a thing or two out of the show straight to the kitchen, and you’ll realize that as much as there is diversity, there’s also flavour. Watch it for the love, the food, and everything in between.”
Nyama Battle is set to be a captivating showcase of food dreams, bold flavours, and fierce competition.
“Nyama Battle” premiered on e.tv on Sunday, 23 February, from 17h00 to 18h00 till 18 May 2025. Repeats on eExtra, eReality, and eVod.
Don’t miss out!
By Sinenzolo Mondi
Joe Alex 
SALM TEAM 
Dj Chilu 