Moja Love, heartfelt story of orphans, family dynamics to premiere in May

TALENT of Steel is preparing for an exciting production in 2025 with Moja Love, an authentic Zimbabwean film that captures the essence of life through the lens of the Shona language. The film is primarily aimed at Zimbabwean audiences.

Inspired by real-life stories impacting the country’s socio-economic landscape, Moja Love delves into family, love, and the struggles that shape daily life. Written and directed by Eddie Ndhlovu, principal photography is scheduled to begin in March at Lake Chivero in Harare in collaboration with ZimParks.

Ndhlovu shared that the production is set to premiere in May.
“Moja Love opens with a poignant scene: a vibrant gathering of family and friends around a dishevelled pile of clothes and personal belongings – a traditional ceremony known as kugova nhumbi. This gathering, steeped in Shona culture, is a way to share the deceased’s (Betina) belongings. Among the crowd are her elder sister, Mai Goddy, a woman of strong opinions; her brother, the quiet yet thoughtful Ketai; his spirited twin, Fiona; the eager young sister, Rosina; and Betina’s two children, the resilient Lucky (14) and the imaginative Zodwa (12),” said Ndhlovu.

The film takes a deeper look at the challenges faced by orphans after the death of their parents.
“As emotions flare, a heated debate erupts over who will take custody of the children. Rosina, filled with ambition and a desire to provide a better life, insists on bringing them to the bustling city. This proposal is met with fierce resistance from Mai Goddy, who claims her right to the children, citing her years of care during Betina’s illness. The tension mounts as family dynamics clash – voices rise, and old grievances surface, painting a vivid picture of familial bonds tested by tragedy. Ultimately, under the weight of family pressure, the decision falls to Mai Goddy, despite her questionable capabilities as a guardian. As Lucky reassures Zodwa that they will navigate this storm together, the children find solace in their aunt Fiona’s home and seek refuge from their uncle Ketai’s quiet strength,” he explained.

Ndhlovu said that oja Love is not just a story of loss but a celebration of resilience and the spirit of Ubuntu.
“It explores the complexities of love, responsibility, and the struggle to forge a path in a world burdened by the challenges of being orphans.”

Scheduled for release in May, the film will debut on television before being available online, with aspirations for recognition at film festivals worldwide.
“It promises to be a heartfelt journey that resonates with audiences, igniting conversations about love, loss, and the ties that bind us,” he said.