We love it when a Showmax girls’ trip makes it out of the group chat and Launching on Friday, 28 November on the streaming platform, The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa brings together some of the continent’s most iconic Housewives for the ultimate getaway, set against the vibrant backdrop of Brazil.
Representing The Real Housewives of Durban are seasoned housewife Jojo Robinson, who will be joined by Angel Ndlela and a returning Annie Mthembu. Despite being off our TVs, she has still managed to find herself in the news since her departure.
From Durban to Rio: Annie Mthembu’s Return to Reality Royalty
After joining the Real Housewives of Durban in 2021 for its first season, Annie Mthembu stepped back from the show before its fourth season in 2024 in favour of a mental health break. She was also looking for some time for reflection as well as time to focus on her business.
Now, after two years away from the cameras, Mthembu shared that she finally felt like herself again; refreshed, recharged, and ready to have fun with it.
“I took that break to protect my peace and do some serious self-work. Now I’m coming back from a place of strength, not survival. Plus, let’s be honest… once you’ve had a taste of reality TV, it’s hard not to miss that energy!”
The Real Spotlight
While it’s an incredible privilege to work with Showmax, it’s not easy coming back to the limelight, especially when the public continues to have opinions about your personal life. Yet, for Mthembu, the journey back into the spotlight was made easy by her doing the inner work first,
“I’ve learned that if your mind and heart aren’t in sync, the spotlight can be heavy,” she says, adding that she’s made sure to go back to knowing who she is, what she stands for, and what she will or won’t entertain,
“I pray, I journal, I affirm myself daily, and I’ve built a routine that keeps me grounded no matter what chaos is around me. So yes, I’m back in the spotlight… but this time, the light is mine.”
Now, just because she’s better centred doesn’t mean that she didn’t have a few moments on camera that she wishes hadn’t happened. She shared that there were moments where she lost herself a little because some personal triggers came up. Yet, she also believes those moments are part of what makes reality TV real,
“I owned it, worked through it, and came out stronger. Sometimes the uncomfortable parts of our story are the ones that show the most growth.”
Building Bonds Beyond Borders
Joining The Real Housewives of Durban housewives in sunny Rio are The Real Housewives of Johannesburg favourites Madam Evodia Mogase and Christall Kay. From Nairobi, we have Dr Catherine Masitsa and Zena Nyambu, while Nigeria brings the heat with Princess Jecoco from Abuja and Mariam Timmer from Lagos.
It’s one thing to come back to ‘the office’ and be met with familiar faces, but it’s a whole other thing to be met with powerful and iconic strangers from the continent. With that, Mthembu admitted to being both excited and a little nervous. Yet, in adopting an easy and simple mindset (“Go in open-hearted, have fun, and represent Durban with grace and a little spice”), she looked forward to experiencing the magic of African women coming together and owning their power.
She adds that there was such a beautiful energy of sisterhood and laughter that it reminded her that women can come together, support one another, and still have the best time.
“I found peace and connection in spaces I didn’t expect, and that was really special for me.”
Drama Meets Housewives
Speaking on which cast members surprised her the most, that title goes to the Real Housewives of Lagos’ Mariam Timmer and the Real Housewives of Nairobi’s Dr. Catherine Masitsa,
“Both are such vibrant, fun-loving women, full of personality and heart. But let me tell you, don’t play with their fire unless you’re ready to feel the heat. They’re bold, smart, and know how to hold their own, and I love that about them.”
Now with so many strong personalities in one place, some drama is sure to occur, which is why Mthembu describes Mariam and Christall as the drama queens of the trip.
“Those two brought the spice, the sass, and the moments that had everyone talking,” she says with a laugh, “You honestly couldn’t predict what was coming next with them. Pure entertainment from start to finish!”
Real Housewives Ultimate Girls’ Trip Dream List
Annie Mthembu shares her RHUGT list:
- Real Housewives Of Durban’s Londie London: For the vibes and that effortless cool energy.
- Real Housewives Of Durban’s Jojo Robinson: We’d never stop laughing.
- Real Housewives Of Durban’s friend of the show Minnie Ntuli: She brings the fire and keeps things exciting.
- Real Housewives of Nairobi’s Dr C: She’s such an interesting woman; there’s depth and mystery there.
- Real Housewives Of Johannesburg’s Madame: She’s got her own special sauce and knows how to own a room.
- Real Housewives Of Lagos’ Faith Morey: There’s so much I’d love to unpack and understand from her season.
- Real Housewives Of Lagos’ Mariam Timmer: She’s pure fun and always up for a good time.
- Real Housewives of Abuja’s Princess Jennifer: Her energy is electric, and she lights up every space she’s in!
Watch the trailer
After the massive success of The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: South Africa, one of Showmax’s most-watched titles of 2024, the latest instalment turns up the heat with even more luxury, drama, and unfiltered sisterhood. The franchise is officially going continental, as Housewives from South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria come together for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
If that’s not reason enough to tune in on the 28th of November, Annie Mthembu shares that people should watch the show because now they will see a whole new side of her.
“I’m lighter, happier, and way more self-aware, but still spicy enough to keep things interesting!”
She adds that you’ll see her fun side, her vulnerable side, and her evolved side all in one,
“Expect laughter, heart, and a bit of heat, because I came to enjoy this trip, not just survive it. And trust me, it’s a journey you’ll want to watch unfold.”
Pastry Playdates 
Leave a comment