Musa Mseleku is a prominent South African businessman, reality television star, author, and polygamist best known for his role in the hit reality show Uthando Nes’thembu. He has gained nationwide recognition for openly practicing polygamy with five wives and has become one of South Africa’s most talked-about public figures. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a millionaire entrepreneur continues to inspire and spark conversations across the nation.
Musa Mseleku Wikipedia
| Field | Details |
| Full name | Musa C. Mseleku |
| Gender | Male |
| Date of birth | 9 June 1974 |
| Age | 51 years (as of October 2025) |
| Place of birth | Mzumbe, Kwa-Madlala, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Current residence | KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Ethnicity | Zulu |
| Zodiac sign | Gemini |
| Religion | Traditional African beliefs |
| Sexual orientation | Straight |
| Weight | Approximately 80 kg (176 lbs) |
| Hair colour | Black |
| Eye colour | Dark brown |
| Marital status | Married (Polygamous) |
| Spouses | Busisiwe “MaCele” Mseleku, Nokukhanya “MaYeni” Mseleku, Thobile “MaKhumalo” Mseleku, Mbali “MaNgwabe” Mseleku, Samukelisiwe “MaKhwela” Khwela |
| Children | 10 children (expecting 11th child in 2025) |
| Parents | Mother: Momathemba Joyce Mseleku (deceased) |
| Siblings | One younger sister, Nompendulo |
| Alma mater | Denver Zoar Mission School, Prince Ngamizizwe School, Sister Joan’s High School, University of KwaZulu-Natal |
| Profession | Businessman, reality TV star, author, TV host, public speaker |
| Net worth | $2 million (approximately R37 million) as of 2025 |
Who is Musa Mseleku?
Musa Mseleku is a South African businessman and reality television personality who has become a household name through his candid portrayal of polygamous life. He was born on 9 June 1974 in Mzumbe, Kwa-Madlala, in rural KwaZulu-Natal. He rose to prominence as the star of Uthando Nes’thembu, which premiered in 2017 and follows his life with his wives and children.
The television personality grew up in a modest background, raised by his mother, grandmother, and younger sister. His upbringing in rural KwaZulu-Natal instilled in him traditional Zulu values and a deep appreciation for family and cultural practices. This background shaped his worldview and his decision to practice polygamy as an adult.
Musa Mseleku’s age, date of birth, and early life
Musa Mseleku is 51 years old as of October 2025. He was born on 9 June 1974, making him a Gemini according to the zodiac calendar. The reality star spent his formative years in Mzumbe, Kwa-Madlala, where he experienced the challenges and joys of growing up in rural South Africa.
His childhood was marked by strong family bonds, particularly with his late mother, Momathemba Joyce Mseleku, who played a pivotal role in raising him. The values of hard work, respect for tradition, and the importance of family were instilled in him from a young age. These principles would later influence his decision to embrace polygamy and build a large family.
Education and qualifications
Musa Mseleku’s educational journey began at Denver Zoar Mission School in Umzumbe, where he completed his primary education. He then proceeded to Prince Ngamizizwe School before completing his matric at Sister Joan’s High School in 1993.
After finishing high school, Mseleku enrolled at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where he obtained a degree in public administration in 1997. His education provided him with the foundational knowledge and skills that would later prove invaluable in his business ventures and television career. The businessman has always emphasized the importance of education and encourages his children to pursue their academic goals.
Musa Mseleku career
Early career as a journalist
After graduating from university, Musa Mseleku began his professional career in journalism. He started working at Durban Youth Radio, where he honed his communication skills and developed a passion for storytelling. He later moved to work for Ukhozi FM and SABC News, where he gained valuable experience in broadcasting and media.
His time in journalism taught him how to connect with audiences and tell compelling stories. These skills would prove crucial when he transitioned to reality television and began sharing his own life story with millions of South Africans.
Transition to business
Mseleku eventually left journalism to pursue entrepreneurship. He established himself as a successful businessman with interests spanning multiple industries, including agriculture, real estate, and media production. His business acumen and willingness to take calculated risks helped him build a substantial fortune.
The entrepreneur has been vocal about his journey to success, even authoring a book titled “How I Made My First Million – And How You Can Also Do It” in 2020. In this book, he shares business strategies, challenges he overcame, and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. He has also become a sought-after motivational speaker and business mentor.
Reality television breakthrough
Musa Mseleku’s life changed dramatically in 2017 when Uthando Nes’thembu premiered on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161). The show offers an intimate look at his polygamous marriage and the daily dynamics of living with four wives and their children. The series became an instant hit, sparking national conversations about polygamy, tradition, and modern family structures.
The show’s success led to Mseleku becoming a household name across South Africa. His honest portrayal of both the joys and challenges of polygamy resonated with audiences, making Uthando Nes’thembu one of the most-watched reality shows in the country. As of 2025, the show is in its eighth season.
Hosting Mnakwethu
Building on the success of Uthando Nes’thembu, Mseleku began hosting another reality show called Mnakwethu. The show, which also airs on Mzansi Magic, follows married men who wish to introduce polygamy to their families. Mseleku serves as a mediator and counselor, helping these men navigate the sensitive process of asking their wives for permission to marry additional wives.
Mnakwethu has been both praised and criticized for its controversial subject matter. While some viewers appreciate the cultural perspective it provides, others have accused the show of exploiting women’s emotions for entertainment. Despite the criticism, the show remains popular and has aired multiple seasons.
Other television projects
The Mseleku family’s television presence expanded further with the launch of Izingane Zes’thembu, a spin-off show that follows Musa’s older children as they navigate adulthood, relationships, and career choices. The show premiered in 2023 and has aired three seasons, giving viewers insight into the next generation of the Mseleku family.
Additionally, there is a talk show featuring the Mseleku wives, further solidifying the family’s position as South African reality television royalty.
What is Musa Mseleku’s net worth?
As of 2025, Musa Mseleku’s net worth is estimated at $2 million, which is approximately R37 million. He has accumulated this wealth through multiple income streams, establishing himself as one of South Africa’s wealthiest reality television personalities.
Sources of income
Mseleku’s fortune comes from various sources. His primary business ventures span agriculture, real estate, and media production. He is known to own multiple properties across KwaZulu-Natal and has investments in various industries.
His television career contributes significantly to his wealth. As the star and executive producer of Uthando Nes’thembu, he receives substantial compensation from Mzansi Magic. His role as host of Mnakwethu adds to his television income. Additionally, his work as an author, public speaker, and business mentor generates revenue.
The businessman is also known for his impressive car collection, which includes approximately 15 luxury vehicles. He famously purchased brand new Mercedes-Benz vehicles for each of his four wives in 2019, reportedly spending R18 million on these gifts.
Is Musa Mseleku married? Wives and relationships
Musa Mseleku is married to five wives in a polygamous union, making him one of South Africa’s most well-known polygamists. His marriages follow traditional Zulu customs, and he is open about both the rewards and challenges of maintaining multiple relationships.
First wife: Busisiwe “MaCele” Mseleku
Musa married his first wife, Busisiwe “MaCele” Mseleku (née Cele), in 2002 when he was 23 years old. As the first wife, MaCele holds a special position in the family hierarchy and is often referred to as “Ndlovukazi” (the great elephant or senior wife). She has been instrumental in the family’s journey into polygamy, giving her blessing for Musa to marry additional wives.
In January 2024, MaCele and Musa celebrated over 20 years of marriage. Despite the challenges of sharing her husband with other women, MaCele has remained a pillar of strength in the family. She is also a television personality, motivational speaker, and radio personality. MaCele and Musa have three children together: Lwandle, Abongwe, and Owami. She also raised Snenhlanhla “Sne,” Musa’s daughter from another relationship.
Second wife: Nokukhanya “MaYeni” Mseleku
Nokukhanya “MaYeni” Mseleku became Musa’s second wife in 2007. Their relationship has been characterized by ups and downs, which have been documented on Uthando Nes’thembu. MaYeni has been open about her struggles within the polygamous setup and has at times left the family homestead due to stress and health concerns.
As of 2025, MaYeni’s position in the family remains uncertain, with reports suggesting ongoing tension. She has three children with Musa: Mpumelelo, Mnini, and Mawande. Their relationship has been a focal point of drama on the reality show, with viewers witnessing heated arguments and reconciliation attempts.
Third wife: Thobile “MaKhumalo” Mseleku
Musa married Thobile “MaKhumalo” Mseleku (née Khumalo) in 2009 when she was just 18 years old. The couple formalized their union in a lavish traditional ceremony in September 2022. MaKhumalo is 36 years old as of 2025 and was born on 21 February 1989.
MaKhumalo is not just a reality TV star but also a radio host, entrepreneur, and cast member of The Real Housewives of Durban. She has faced criticism from other wives, particularly because she had an affair with Musa while he was already married. Despite this rocky start, she has carved out her own identity and business ventures. She raises Mpilonhle “Mpilo,” Musa’s daughter from another relationship.
Fourth wife: Mbali “MaNgwabe” Mseleku
Mbali “MaNgwabe” Mseleku (née Ngwabe) became Musa’s fourth wife in 2009, the same year he married MaKhumalo. MaNgwabe is a qualified nurse who has maintained a calm and dignified presence throughout the family drama. She has two daughters with Musa: Mawande and Zenande.
MaNgwabe initially threatened to leave the family when Musa introduced his fifth wife but has remained supportive, particularly during his recent health scare. She is known for her independence and strong work ethic, balancing her nursing career with her responsibilities as a wife and mother.
Fifth wife: Samukelisiwe “MaKhwela” Khwela
In 2025, Musa introduced Samukelisiwe “MaKhwela” Khwela as his fifth wife, causing significant controversy within the family and among viewers. MaKhwela is 25 years old, making her 27 years younger than Musa and reportedly a friend of his daughter Snenhlanhla.
The introduction of MaKhwela met resistance from three of Musa’s wives (MaYeni, MaKhumalo, and MaNgwabe), with only MaCele initially welcoming her. In April 2025, MaKhwela announced that she was pregnant, expecting Musa’s 11th child. Her pregnancy sparked intense debate on social media, with some criticizing the age gap and others supporting their right to practice polygamy.
Previous relationship
Before his reality TV fame, Musa was involved with another woman named Sindisiwe “MaSaule” Masaule, who passed away in 2008 in a car accident. MaSaule was reportedly close friends with MaKhumalo, which added complexity to the family dynamics when MaKhumalo later married Musa.
Musa Mseleku children
Musa Mseleku has 10 children as of October 2025, with his 11th child expected soon. His children range from young adults to teenagers, and several have followed their father into the spotlight.
Children with MaCele
With his first wife, MaCele, Musa has three children:
- Lwandle Mseleku – The eldest son who has ventured into business, starting his own transport company
- Abongwe Mseleku – Often appears on the family’s reality shows
- Owami Mseleku – The youngest child with MaCele
MaCele also raises Snenhlanhla “Sne” Mseleku, Musa’s daughter from a previous relationship, treating her as her own.
Children with MaYeni
With his second wife, MaYeni, Musa has three children:
- Mpumelelo Mseleku – The most prominent of Musa’s children, starring in Izingane Zes’thembu. He has made headlines for his own polygamous aspirations and currently has three children with two different women, Vuyokazi and Tirelo
- Mnini Mseleku – Often featured on the family shows
- Mawande Mseleku – Another of the couple’s children
Children with MaNgwabe
With his fourth wife, MaNgwabe, Musa has two daughters:
- Mawande Mseleku
- Zenande Mseleku
Children from other relationships
Musa has two children from relationships outside his marriages:
- Snenhlanhla “Sne” Mseleku – Raised by MaCele
- Mpilonhle “Mpilo” Mseleku – Raised by MaKhumalo. Her biological mother is Thobile Zungu
Expected child
As of 2025, Musa’s fifth wife, MaKhwela, announced her pregnancy, which means Musa will soon be a father to 11 children. The pregnancy announcement in April 2025 generated significant media attention and public debate.
Musa Mseleku health challenges
In 2024, Musa Mseleku experienced a serious health scare that was documented in the eighth season of Uthando Nes’thembu. In May 2024, he was rushed to the hospital and admitted to the high-care unit after suffering symptoms consistent with a minor stroke.
The businessman later revealed that the stroke was caused by stress related to family unity and the challenges of managing his polygamous household. The health crisis brought his wives together, with even those who had been resistant to the fifth wife putting aside their differences to support him during his recovery.
In October 2025, Mseleku reflected on the experience, calling it a “blessing in disguise” that taught him valuable lessons about life, family, and priorities. He expressed gratitude to his wives for their support during his recovery and acknowledged that the incident forced him to re-evaluate his approach to managing family relationships.
Fast facts about Musa Mseleku
- Spiritual healer: Musa identifies as a spiritual healer and has been seen praying for people on his reality show, though he clarifies he is not a sangoma or pastor.
- Author: He has written two books – “Life and Polygamy” and “How I Made My First Million – And How You Can Also Do It,” both published in 2020.
- Car enthusiast: Musa owns approximately 15 luxury vehicles and famously bought brand new Mercedes-Benz cars for each of his four wives in 2019.
- Executive producer: He is not just the star but also the creator and executive producer of Uthando Nes’thembu, giving him creative control over how his story is told.
- Traditional values: Despite his wealth and modern lifestyle, Musa remains deeply rooted in Zulu traditions and customs, which guide his practice of polygamy.
- Public speaker: He is a sought-after motivational speaker who addresses topics including business success, traditional values, and relationship management.
- Controversial figure: His television shows, particularly Mnakwethu, have sparked national debates about gender equality, traditional practices, and the portrayal of polygamy in media.
- Family man: Despite having multiple wives, Musa has stated that family unity and the well-being of his children remain his top priorities.
- Social media presence: He is active on Instagram (@musamseleku) where he shares updates about his family, business ventures, and motivational content.
- Business mentor: Through his “How I Made My First Million” program, Musa actively mentors young entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Read more: Who is Lucky Gumbi? Biography, net worth, age, wives, children, career, mining business
Wrapping up
Musa Mseleku’s journey from a small-town boy in rural KwaZulu-Natal to one of South Africa’s most recognizable television personalities is both inspiring and controversial. His openness about practicing polygamy has made him a lightning rod for national conversations about tradition, relationships, and gender dynamics in modern South Africa. As of October 2025, he continues to balance his roles as businessman, television star, husband to five wives, and father to his growing family. Despite recent health challenges and ongoing family tensions, Mseleku remains committed to his chosen lifestyle and continues to share his story with millions of viewers across the nation.
References
- “Musa Mseleku: Biography, Age, Wives, Children, Books” – TheirMagazine
- “Musa Mseleku reveals ‘valuable lesson’ gained through health scare and family drama” – News24
- “Musa Mseleku’s family expansion: baby number 11 with youngest wife arriving soon” – IOL
- “Musa Mseleku and first wife MaCele mark milestone in their marriage” – TimesLive
- “Uthando Nes’thembu” – Wikipedia
- “The reality of polygamy: Musa Mseleku’s impact on South African TV” – Daily News
- “Musa Mseleku’s biography: daughter, wives, fifth wife, wedding, businesses, job, cars and net worth” – Briefly
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