Buzza James Rejects Makoti Stereotypes, Says Wife Anele Mdoda Is Not Hired Help

South African media personality Anele Mdoda and her husband, Prince Bonelela “Buzza James” Mgudlwa, have spoken about their approach to marriage and the traditional expectations placed on newly married women in some African families.

Speaking ahead of the premiere of their Netflix wedding special, Stars & Vows: Anele & Buzza, on November 13, the couple made it clear that Anele is not expected to take on the role of a servant in her husband’s family.

Buzza said marriage should never mean a woman is treated like hired help, stressing that a bride who joins a family should be welcomed and valued as one of its members.

“You’ve come into the family and the family says, ‘Ungumntana walapha’ (you are a child of this home). You shouldn’t be treated like hired help,” he said.

In an interview with IOL, the couple discussed how Buzza’s family has welcomed Anele and how they are adjusting to married life.

Anele speaks about her in-laws’ treatment

Anele supported her husband’s views, explaining that his family has made efforts to ensure she feels appreciated rather than burdened by traditional domestic responsibilities.

She recalled that Buzza’s sister arranged caterers for family gatherings so she would not spend the entire day in the kitchen.

Other relatives have also questioned why she wakes up early to prepare food, while Buzza’s mother takes a relaxed approach to mornings.

Anele also explained that during family holidays, the men help bathe and prepare the children, allowing the women to rest.

“Buzza’s family doesn’t play that game,” she said, adding that women in the family are valued and treasured.

Marriage has strengthened their relationship

The couple also discussed how marriage has brought them greater security and companionship.

Anele said she takes comfort in knowing that her husband is always on her side and will stand by her.

Buzza explained that formalising their relationship has also strengthened his connection with Anele’s family, particularly her father.

He said traditional African families may not always encourage the same level of family involvement when a couple is only dating. Marriage, he explained, has allowed him to build a closer relationship with his in-laws.

He even joked that he speaks to his father-in-law more often than he speaks to his own father.

A quieter life away from the cameras

Despite the glamorous wedding featured in their Netflix special, Anele said their everyday family life is relatively simple.

The 947 presenter explained that being public figures does not mean every part of their lives has to be extravagant.

She described a typical day at home, with her spending time in the kitchen, the children reading or relaxing, and Buzza working in his office.

Buzza said protecting their relationship means ensuring that Anele feels safe and supported, regardless of what happens outside their home.

He added that encouraging one another, offering reassurance and praying together are important parts of maintaining their relationship.

The couple also spoke about their love of travelling with their children and exposing them to different parts of the world.

First Christmas plans as newlyweds

As the festive season approaches, Anele and Buzza are preparing to establish their own Christmas traditions.

Buzza said his father encouraged them to spend their first Christmas as a married couple building their own family traditions instead of immediately taking on extended family commitments.

However, Anele’s work schedule, which includes Lotto broadcasts throughout December, will influence their plans.

The couple will spend Christmas in Johannesburg, with a short trip to the Eastern Cape on December 18 for an umgidi celebration.

Stars & Vows: Anele & Buzza premieres on Netflix on November 13.