Mafikizolo and the Muppets make for a very catchy collab!
SA’s hit Afro-pop duo teamed up with the Takalani Sesame Muppets to create a funky song that celebrates the beloved show’s 20th birthday.
It’s hard to believe that two decades have passed since Sanlam brought Takalani Sesame to South Africa. When the Muppets first burst onto our screens, it was much to the delight of children everywhere, from Sandton to Strandfontein.
To honour and celebrate this milestone, Sanlam invited one of South Africa’s most-loved bands to create a catchy tune for the whole family to sing along to. Mafikizolo’s Theo Kgosinkwe and Nhlanhla Nciza were only too happy to get in on the festivities.
The resultant song, '20 Years and Counting', is as upbeat as it is inspirational: encouraging kindness whilst honing numeracy skills too.
As star-struck as the Muppets were upon meeting Mafikizolo’s dynamic duo, it turned out that the feeling was mutual. Nhlanhla confesses she’s a big Takalani fan herself.
“I’ve always loved how the show has made education seem cool,” she says, “Although I wish Takalani had been around when I was younger, my 8-year-old son loves to watch. I’m so excited for him to see our music video and song… finally, he’ll see me grooving with some of his real heroes!”
A parent himself, Theo concurs. “We’re honoured and excited to be celebrating this incredible show – not just as performers, but as parents too. We can’t wait for more people to hear it, and for all to sing along with us when they do!”
Reaching over four-million children every month, Takalani Sesame is the South African version of the internationally-acclaimed Sesame Street. Its aim: to support the foundation phase of the national primary school curriculum whilst empowering and inspiring kids to be smarter, stronger, and kinder. Incorporating all 11 of the country’s official languages, the show has been instrumental in helping millions of children, but also in teaching thousands of their caregivers about what a child’s mind really needs to grow.
Right from the start, Sanlam has been a founding partner and remains as committed as ever.
Watch the music video below:
Tune in to the 'Scenic Drive with Rian', weekdays from 16:00-19:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.