Weather forecasts do more than predict rain or sunshine. They help communities plan, prepare and stay safe. For Thabile Makapela, delivering that information in isiXhosa is what truly makes the difference.
As South Africa marks National Weatherperson’s Day on 5 February, Makapela stands out as one of the country’s few weather anchors bringing daily forecasts to viewers in their mother tongue on Iindaba Zethu, produced by Newzroom Afrika.
For many households, her voice has become a familiar and trusted part of the evening news, explaining cold fronts, heatwaves, flooding risks and water restrictions in clear, accessible isiXhosa.
Speaking the language of home
Originally from Queenstown in the Eastern Cape, Makapela knew from a young age that television was where she belonged. Today, that childhood dream has evolved into a role that blends journalism, service and culture.
“Presenting in isiXhosa makes the experience even more exciting,” she says. “It’s my mother tongue, so I’m able to communicate naturally while still being informative.”
That natural connection matters. Weather information can often feel technical or confusing, especially when delivered in a second language. By speaking isiXhosa, Makapela helps ensure that viewers fully understand warnings that could affect their safety and daily lives.
Why local language weather matters
South Africa’s climate can change quickly and dramatically. In recent years, communities have faced:
- Severe flooding in parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga
- Ongoing drought and water shortages in the Western Cape
- Restrictions affecting Nelson Mandela Bay
- Extreme summer heatwaves across the country
Clear communication during these events can be lifesaving.
Broadcasting on DStv channel 163 at 19h00, Iindaba Zethu ensures that critical updates reach millions of isiXhosa-speaking viewers every day.
For Makapela, it is not just about reading a map. It is about responsibility.
From kids’ TV to national news
Makapela’s career began in children’s news, where she first built her confidence in front of the camera. One of her earliest standout moments came when she interviewed former president Jacob Zuma during Child Protection Week, an experience she still describes as unforgettable.
Since then, she has grown into a confident and trusted broadcaster and credits much of her development to mentorship from veteran news figures in the industry.
Inspiring the next generation
Beyond the studio, Makapela is passionate about mentoring young journalists, especially those from smaller towns where careers in media may not seem possible.
“Where I come from, broadcasting wasn’t considered a typical career,” she says. “I want young people to see that it’s possible.”
Her message is simple. Embrace who you are and use your voice.
A familiar face on National Weatherperson’s Day
As National Weatherperson’s Day celebrates the professionals who keep us informed about the skies above, Makapela’s work highlights something equally important: the power of language.
By delivering forecasts in isiXhosa, she is not only sharing the weather. She is building trust, representation and understanding.
For many viewers, it feels less like watching the news and more like hearing updates from someone at home.
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