Somkhanda Gumbi, the polygamist reality TV star, is once again making waves after his traditional wedding to 22-year-old Zama Duma. The union, celebrated in a stunning umkehlo ceremony, has taken social media by storm, leaving Mzansi captivated and buzzing with conversation.
Much like fellow polygamist Musa Mseleku, Gumbi first grabbed the public’s attention through his reality TV show, The Gumbis, which offers an intimate peek into the world of polygamy. Gumbi and his family quickly became one of the most talked-about names in South African entertainment, thanks to the show’s raw portrayal of life in a polygamous household.
Zama, who graduated with a law degree from Wits University, has sparked even more intrigue with her age — 22 — a notable contrast to Somkhanda’s 35 years. Despite the age gap, the couple’s umkehlo ceremony in April was nothing short of extravagant, showcasing the family’s traditional Zulu roots and no-holds-barred celebrations.
The couple is also affiliated with the controversial Shembe Church, the Nazareth Baptist Church, a faith that uniquely blends Christian beliefs with traditional Zulu practices. This connection adds yet another layer of cultural complexity to their relationship, sparking debate among both fans and critics.
The wedding was a star-studded affair, with the Gumbi family and friends in attendance, celebrating the union in true Zulu style. As Somkhanda, affectionately known as Somk, continues to showcase his polygamous lifestyle on The Gumbis alongside his two other wives — Bayede Cebekhulu Gumbi (35) and Nombuso Malinga Gumbi (29) — viewers have gained a deeper understanding of the dynamics within his unconventional family structure.
While some are still grappling with the idea of polygamy in modern society, Gumbi’s reality show offers a glimpse into his personal and professional life as a businessman balancing family life with his career. As the Gumbi family’s journey unfolds on SABC 1, one thing is clear: they’ve become a household name, and the conversation surrounding them is only getting started.
