Land of Mills and Money: e.tv’s new drama coming this August

e.tv is set to premiere its new daily drama Land of Mills and Money on Monday, 31 August at 7PM, introducing viewers to the fictional Mpumalanga town of Shonalanga, where power, money and long-held secrets collide. Set in the heart of Mpumalanga, Land of Mills and Money takes viewers to the fictional town of Shonalanga, a place where the land is worked for the riches of the very few and where ambition, loyalty and survival often come at a price.

At the centre of the story is Phiwe, played by Nelisiwe Sibiya, a fiercely determined young police officer whose life is turned upside down after a fateful encounter during a heist leaves her with a secret she must protect at all costs. As Phiwe struggles to keep the truth hidden from her family and colleagues, township matriarch Mazwi Mhlongo, played by Winnie Ntshaba, sees an opportunity to use Phiwe’s secret to her own advantage. But the consequences extend beyond Phiwe’s career and family life. Deep in Shonalanga is a complicated love story between Phiwe and Muzi Mhlongo, played by Zamani Mbatha. Phiwe’s decision during the heist has consequences for their relationship, making it impossible for her to simply be with the man she truly loves.

Love, lies and power collide in Shonalanga

Anchored by compelling family dynamics, Land of Mills and Money explores themes of love, lies, justice and redemption. As Phiwe’s carefully guarded secret threatens to come to light, loyalties will be tested and power will be contested. In a world where everyone has something to protect, every decision carries lasting consequences.

The new e.tv drama features a stellar ensemble cast of some of South Africa’s most celebrated performers, including Themba Ndaba as Melusi, Jo-Anne Reyneke as Thembi, Sphelele Luthuli as Khwezi, Mbali Ngiba as Gog’Sindi, Kenneth Nkosi as Pastor Caiphus and Gcinile Nkosi as Mam’Dee.

Speaking about the new drama and its place in e.tv’s primetime offering, Helga Palmer, Group Head: Content Development & Strategy at eMedia, said the 7PM slot remains an important part of the broadcaster’s evening schedule.

At e.tv, 7PM is a pivotal slot in primetime where families come together to connect through powerful South African storytelling. Land of Mills and Money marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we continue to strengthen our evening offering. From 7PM right through to 11PM, viewers can now enjoy an uninterrupted lineup of gripping daily dramas, making e.tv the home of endless local storytelling every weeknight. We’re proud to bring audiences stories that entertain, spark conversation and create shared viewing moments that keep families coming back night after night.” – Helga Palmer

Land of Mills and Money is produced by Grounded Productions, with Khanyi Nxumalo and Thomas Gumede serving as executive producers and Ayanda Halimana as head writer.