Umhlobo Wenene FM and TruFM unveil new line-ups

Eastern Cape-based SABC radio stations TruFM and Umhlobo Wenene FM have announced refreshed programming lineups effective from April 1.

Umhlobo Wenene FM has made a presenter shift. Mzwandile Ntshona will officially take over Beka Ithemba Lakho Kuye, the early-morning revival programme airing on Mondays to Thursdays between 3am and 5am. This follows the passing of beloved presenter Nomonde Vakalisa in December.

The station is also making strategic weekend adjustments:

• On Fridays, Jaiva Mzansi with Yanga "Yarees" Mabokela has been extended to four hours, from 8pm to midnight.
• Ezolimo, the station’s agricultural show, will expand to a full hour and move to Saturdays from 5am to 6am, reflecting the increasing interest in food security and agriculture.
• The shift allows for better content flow on Saturday mornings, with Izimvo Zabantwana moving to 7am to 8am, followed by Luckeez with Ezisemanqwanqweni (Top 20) from 8am to 10am.
• Lavuth’ibhayi, the station’s award-winning traditional music show, returns to its original Saturday 10am to 1pm slot. The move is expected to further strengthen its position as a sponsor favourite while keeping its loyal listeners engaged.
• #Imbadla629, hosted by Reggie Solani, will be extended to a three-hour show from 6pm to 9pm, followed by Jaiva Mzansi 9pm to midnight, ensuring non-stop entertainment throughout the night.
• Rev Keketso Bloem steps in as the new host of Isandulela seNkonzo from 8am to 9am on Sunday, bringing deep spiritual insight and a strong listener connection. He will continue co-hosting with Mam K from 7pm to 10pm.

While TruFM's core line-up remains intact, key strategic shifts have been introduced to enhance programming, increase audience engagement and strengthen the station's position as the leading youth radio platform in the Eastern Cape:

• A fresh young voice, Tabita Busani, has been recruited from a leading Cape Town community radio station to now anchor Hlalani Kum Mna Ndihlale Kuni. The strategic move is designed to strengthen TruFM's presence in key metropolitan areas and drive audience growth.
• Additionally, the station is revamping and reorganising its weekend party slots from 6pm to 1am to deliver a high-energy, uninterrupted music experience. This will kick off with the Visual Pre-Party Mix Hour on Fridays from 6pm to 7pm, bringing a new dimension to the pre-party atmosphere and setting the perfect vibe for the weekend. The slot will feature DJs.
• Teen Zone, a new stand alone show for pre-teens and teenagers, will launch on Saturdays from 9am to 10m, offering dedicated content tailored to younger listeners.
• The Sunday evening education show Up Skill will move to an earlier timeslot of  6pm to 7pm, ensuring greater accessibility for younger audiences.

SABC business manager for Eastern Cape Loyiso Bala said: "Umhlobo Wenene FM’s latest lineup refinements are about honouring our legacy while evolving to meet audience expectations. By strengthening key shows, introducing new voices and ensuring a seamless content flow, we are enhancing our listeners’ experience while staying true to the station’s deep-rooted connection with its audience.

"TruFM's line-up changes reflect our commitment to staying fresh, relevant and connected to our audience. With a mix of familiar favourites and exciting new talent, we’re elevating our content to match the lifestyle of our listeners."