Big Brother Mzansi Season 5 has officially wrapped, and after 72 days of strategy, twists, and emotional highs and lows, Sweet Guluva emerged as the winner of this year’s Umlilo edition.
BBMzansi Season 5 ends with a new winner
The Cape Town-based student, whose full name is Akhonamathemba Mbele, walked away with the grand prize of R2 million, marking the end of a season filled with unexpected moments and bold gameplay.
This year’s edition introduced new twists from the start, including an immediate in-house vote that led to the early exit of one housemate.
The format shifted traditional dynamics, keeping contestants on edge with surprise rule changes, challenging Head of House competitions, and the return of the Lottostar games, which tested housemates’ mental and physical resilience.
The final five contestants navigated a tense finale weekend, knowing only one would be crowned the winner.
Each was evicted in sequence, leaving Sweet Guluva and one other contestant to join show host Smash Afrika on the Big Brother stage for the final announcement.
It was here that Sweet Guluva learned he had secured the majority of viewer votes, officially making him the champion of Season 5.
Celebrations unfolded not only on the live show but also at the Big Brother Mzansi Finale Watch Party hosted at Maracana Restaurant.
The red carpet was hosted by previous season alumni Yolanda Mukondi and Sinaye Kotobe, welcoming notable guests like Nay Maps, Sannah Mchunu, and Wright Ngubeni.
Inside, the atmosphere was charged with excitement as Sol Phenduka and Dimpho M hosted the event, with musical performances from Kwesta, LeeMcKrazy, Zee Nxumalo, and DJ Kaygo energising the crowd.
Reflecting on his victory, Sweet Guluva thanked viewers and his family.
“I’m very much grateful. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. It is indeed a pleasure to be loved and supported by you. Thank you to Ma Oledi and the rest of my family for the love,” he said in a post-win message.
Sweet Guluva, 23, was introduced to audiences as a bubbly, open-minded person who values respect and brings positive energy to any space.
His easygoing nature and relatable personality helped him build strong connections within the house and with viewers, eventually carrying him to the final vote.