Glitz, glamour as Mama G headlines Zambian drama ‘The Family Affair’ at Lusaka premiere

It was a night of glitz and glamour as Nollywood veteran, Patience Ozokwor, popularly known as Mama G, joined the cast of Zambian drama, ‘The Family Affair’ at the movie’s premiere on Saturday at Ster-Kinekor, Manda Hill, in Lusaka.

The film is a Basali Media production, made in association with Kazadi Films. It was written by Veronica Hachipuka and directed by David Kazadi.

Samantha Zulu leads the cast as Vanessa Milimo, a single mother diagnosed with stage-three breast cancer.

Ozokwor plays Mama D, alongside a cast that includes Kondwani Elliott Zulu, Lee Nonde, Mwaka Mugala, Stella Sikana and Lorna Lemi, among other Zambian actors.

The production explores family relationships, betrayal and the fight to protect loved ones, bringing one of Africa’s most recognisable screen personalities into a Zambian story.

At the exclusive red-carpet premiere, Mama G, stole the spotlight in a flowing champagne-gold gown that shimmered under the lights.

Styled by foremost fashion house, Ejabali, the dress featured soft, sheer tulle layered over a nude-toned lining, with a richly embellished bodice adorned with gold sequins and delicate beadwork. Its long sheer sleeves carried shimmering details, while the full-length skirt featured intricate floral embroidery.

She completed the look with a small silver and gold beaded clutch, while her hair was neatly styled in a high bun, with soft braids framing her face. Wearing her signature glasses, she greeted fellow cast and crew members with a warm, beaming smile.

“It was, indeed, an honour to show up at the red-carpet activities fully styled by Ejabali. Great work by Dera and her team. They nailed it with attention to details. Felt truly comfortable. I’m grateful,” Mama G said on the sidelines shortly after the event.

The veteran actress arrived Lusaka on April 17 to shoot the film, with the production bidding her farewell on May 2 before she returned for the premiere.

On October 6, she announced on social media that she would return to watch the film alongside audiences in Lusaka, writing: “I am coming to Zambia to watch “The Family Affair” WITH YOU at the EXCLUSIVE Red-carpet premiere in Lusaka!”

Ahead of the premiere, Mama G received a warm welcome at the airport on November 13, where she was presented with a bouquet of roses and escorted by security before attending a press briefing for the film.

In a video ahead of her return, she told fans she was on her way back to Lusaka for the premiere, repeating “fast fast fast” and declaring: “it’s gonna be Gingi Gingi Gingi G4 General.”

Premieres are also planned for Lagos, Nairobi and London.

In July, the film’s writer and executive producer said it was expected to be released on YouTube and other streaming platforms following its premiere.

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