NYAMA BATTLE RETURNS IN THE MOTHER CITY, BROUGHT TO YOU BY BOXER
South Africa’s favourite street food competition, Nyama Battle, is back for a bold and flavour-packed season. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Cape Town and its surrounding areas, Nyama Battle: The Mother City premieres on 10 May on e.tv, bringing viewers high stakes, real stories, and unforgettable culinary battles.
In partnership with Boxer, your favourite discount supermarket, the new season celebrates the heart of South African street food culture while shining a spotlight on entrepreneurship, ambition, and the everyday grind of building something from nothing.
At its core, Nyama Battle is more than a cooking show. It is a platform for real people with real dreams. From local street food inspiration to modern culinary creativity, contestants compete not only for the title but for the opportunity to turn their passion into sustainable businesses.
In an exciting evolution, Nyama Battle puts the power directly into the hands of South Africans.
Following a nationwide call for entries, aspiring food entrepreneurs submitted their dishes, stories, and journeys to be part of the competition. The public then stepped in, voting for their favourites and helping shape the final lineup.
This public voting phase ensured that the Top 12 contestants are selected by the audience, bringing real support, relatability, and national pride into the competition from day one.
Set in Cape Town and its surrounding areas, the season captures the essence of the Mother City’s diverse food identity while celebrating the people behind the food.
Each contestant brings a story of ambition, resilience, and the pursuit of building something meaningful. Viewers will experience the pressure, the growth, and the life-changing impact that this opportunity can create.
The season is built on a powerful idea that great food businesses can start with simple ingredients and big dreams.
As a key partner, Boxer plays an integral role in bringing the competition to life, supporting everyday South Africans who are working to build something of their own.
“As a champion of the communities we serve, Boxer is proud to partner with Nyama Battle to empower South Africans to transform their lives through cooking. Community upliftment is central to the Boxer business, and this show celebrates the impact of small business support through a unique and proudly South African platform,” says Boxer Brand Manager, Nontando Sokhela.
This season positions Boxer as a brand that backs entrepreneurial spirit and real-world ambition, highlighting how accessible ingredients and smart choices can unlock opportunity.
From in-store challenges to product integration, Boxer connects the show directly to how South Africans shop, cook, and grow their ideas into real businesses.
Beyond the screen, this is a large-scale national campaign designed to engage and reward viewers at home, creating opportunities for audiences to participate, win, and be part of the Nyama Battle journey.
MEET THE CHEFS LEADING THE BATTLE
Lebogang Tlokana (The Funny Chef)
Lebogang, widely known as The Funny Chef, is one of South Africa’s most recognisable culinary personalities, blending food, humour, and storytelling into a distinctive and highly relatable voice. Rising to prominence through viral digital content, she has built a powerful connection with audiences by celebrating everyday cooking and real-life moments around food.
Her work extends beyond social media, with television hosting experience and published cookbooks that reflect her philosophy of accessible, home-inspired meals. Lebogang’s approach is rooted in authenticity, culture, and connection, making her a strong advocate for food as a shared South African experience.
On Nyama Battle, she brings instinct, energy, and a deep understanding of what resonates with audiences, challenging contestants to cook with heart, personality, and purpose.
“An adrenaline boost show if I may, if you’re one to be kept on your toes and clued up on what happens next, Nyama Battle is about to blow you away.”
Chef Moses Moloi
Chef Moses is a respected culinary leader with a strong presence in South Africa’s fine-dining industry and a deep commitment to honouring local food heritage. As co-owner and head chef of Gigi Restaurant, he has built a reputation for precision, discipline, and consistently high standards in the kitchen.
His culinary philosophy is rooted in celebrating South African ingredients and flavours, drawing inspiration from traditional dishes while refining them through modern techniques. Beyond the restaurant space, he is actively involved in industry initiatives focused on community upliftment and food accessibility.
On Nyama Battle, Chef Moses brings a calm but authoritative presence, pushing contestants to elevate their thinking, refine their execution, and deliver dishes that are both technically strong and culturally grounded.
“I’m excited to see the amazing talent and creativity come through this season, and can’t wait to taste the incredible dishes and witness the passion each contestant brings to the table in the mother city”
Chef Keegan Maistry
Chef Keegan is an accomplished executive chef known for his bold, contemporary approach to food and his strong global culinary perspective. Currently serving as Executive Head Chef at Radisson Red Johannesburg Rosebank, he is recognised for creating menus that fuse international trends with local influence.
Originally from KwaZulu-Natal, Keegan developed his craft through international experience, including working alongside Michelin-star chefs in the United States. His cooking style is defined by innovation, precision, and a fearless approach to flavour and presentation.
On Nyama Battle, Chef Keegan challenges contestants to think beyond the expected, encouraging creativity, modernisation, and the ability to transform simple concepts into standout, commercially viable dishes.
“I’m excited to be in the Mother city and food hub of South Africa. Definitely looking for creativity, innovation and energy from contestants”
BROADCAST DETAILS
Premiere: Sunday, 10 May at 17:00
Channel: e.tv
Availability: Catch-up available across digital platforms
The repeat broadcast schedule is as follows, airing in the week following the primary transmission:
- eExtra – Saturdays at 19:40
- eReality – Sundays at 16:10
- eVOD – Available from Monday
Developed and produced by G2 Connection.
ENDS