Turfloop stars in soapie, Skeem Saam

NEVER in the history of Turfloop, has this neighbourhood generated so much attention.

Aptly known as “Turf”, this Mankweng community, east of Polokwane, has only been ce-lebrated thus far as the location of the University of Limpopo and host of the ANC’s historical Polokwane conference in 2007.

It was the recent shoot of home-grown television soap opera, Skeem Saam, that has made many South Africans more familiar with this neck of the woods.

Local landmarks such as the university, Mankweng Hospital and the local police station have also become familiar sights among the show’s viewers.

Television viewers who have never visited Turfloop now relish at the prospect of visits to the area. The hype around Turfloop has gone into overdrive since the series began its weekly primetime broadcast, with morning repeats and weekend omnibuses.

Resident, Sefura Mongalo of Unit C says: “Since Skeem Saam became such an instant favourite, Turf has become a celebrated kasi. To watch this soapie is like taking a stroll to the local supermarket. Everything on Skeem Saam is exactly like it is in our daily lives”.

According to SABC spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago, Skeem Saam’s new primetime slot has generated massive ratings, almost as much as the two-decade old Generations.

Skeem Saam was created by Winnie Serite and produced by PEU Communication Solutions in association with the Gauteng Film Commission and the SABC Education.

The series is about three teenage boys who grapple with tough conflicts as they navigate their journey to manhood in this Limpopo township.

A hit and run accident throws 16-year-old Tbose Maputla, played by Cornet Thabiso Mamabolo, and his friend, Kwaito Seakamela, played by Clement Maosa, into incredibly challenging situations.

Since the series premiered on SABC1 in October 2011, Limpopo actors such as Eric Macheru (Leeto), Lesego Marakalala (Rachel), Patrick Seleka (Kat) and Paulina Motlwatsi (Mapitsi) have become household names.

The cast is complete with veteran actors such as Lydia Mokgokoloshi, Africa Tsoai, Dieketseng Mnisi and Harriet Manamela.