Namibia officially has another new reality television show thanks to local broadcaster NBC. For months, fans were teased with an enticing trailer of ‘Body with Maria Nepembe’, a show that would see the media personality channelling her inner Khloe Kardashian and setting contestants straight in a fierce weight-loss competition.
Last week, invites were handed out to an exclusive few to attend the premiere at Ster Kinekor at the Grove Mall of Namibia to watch the show on the big screen. Luckily the general public didn’t have to wait long – the show officially screened last Sunday on NBC.
“I want to thank the NBC crew who have worked timelessly,” NBC director general Stanley Similo said during a brief clip. “We are proud of all of you. This is the beginning of great things.”
Stanley Simataa, minister of information, communications and technology, also commended NBC for its efforts in elevating Namibian entertainment. “As we are all aware, NBC, like any given broadcaster, operates in a dynamic environment – an environment that requires it to flex to its offerings to ensure the programmes availed to its viewers are in sync with today’s world,” he said.
“The NBC will be providing reality-based programmes that I believe will speak to the need for us as citizens to align in our lives, reflect on our lifestyles and take decisions that will enrich our lives.”
The basis of the show is simple: Thirteen contestants have been selected to go through fitness training courtesy of Fit City’s team as well as and trainers such as Nelao Nengola. Each week, a contestant is given the boot and the rest have to battle it out while shedding excess weight. Nepembe acts as the facilitator during the training, tracking each contestant’s progress and being the voice of reason. Pombili Shilongo acts as the show’s producer.
The show, however, is not short of drama. Throwing jabs about age, giving up and screaming at their instructors, ‘Body with Maria Nepembe’ gives the viewer a glimpse into what it’s like to hate the gym but love the results. It’s all work and no play as viewers understand the frustrations of each contestant. “I hate the gym. I hate the walls. I hate the building!” contestant Josy Nghipandua exclaims during the show. “But it’s also a spiritual journey.”
Whether they’re gasping going up stairs, pushing heavy duty vehicles at Sam Nujoma Stadium or working their butts off in the gym, it’s entertainment and inspiration all in one.
Speaking to The Weekender at the launch, the crowd favourite who couldn’t help but bring all the sassiness, Suoma Katshuna felt the show was a life-changer. “I was surprised because I didn’t know what I could do. What I will say is that fitness is all about activity.”
A fun fact you may not know is that Nepembe directed episodes of the show, but this shouldn’t come as a surprise: The star directed Blvcboxx’s music video ‘Hangover’. For those who follow Nepembe on social media platforms, you’d know she’s serious about fashion, so expect her to rock stylish looks and flaunt her banging body.
Looking at her Instagram, there’s no holding back when she’s in the gym, so she makes a great role model for the contestants to either shape up or ship out.
There’s more good news: Entries are already open for the next season! Get your application forms now at nbc.na and you could be the next contestant on the show.
Get your weekly dose of ‘Body with Maria Nepembe’ every Sunday on NBC1 at 19h30.
– Mickey Nekomba on Facebook; @MickeyNekomba on Twitter
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