HARARE, Aug. 6 (NewsDay Live) – Zimbabwe’s first home-grown Big Brother-style reality television programme, Brother In House Zimbabwe, will be officially launched on Sunday in Harare, with Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Tongai Mnangagwa set to officiate at the event.
The launch will introduce 33 selected housemates to the media, sponsors and the public before they enter a purpose-built house for a three-month competition. Although the show quietly began five weeks ago, Sunday marks its official public unveiling, with contestants already forming alliances and adjusting to life under constant camera surveillance.
Produced by Intelligent Excellence Recognition, the 24-hour reality show sees contestants compete in challenges, build relationships and face weekly evictions determined through public voting. The programme is streamed live on YouTube and TikTok. Nearly 5,000 people auditioned, reflecting strong public interest in a distinctly Zimbabwean alternative to established regional formats such as Big Brother Mzansi and Big Brother Naija.
Beyond entertainment, organisers say the production is expected to create more than 120 direct jobs across production, music, fashion and digital media. Renowned physician Professor Johannes Marisa is overseeing emergency medical care for contestants, while psychologists and a welfare officer are providing ongoing support.
The presence of the deputy minister at the launch underscores the growing profile of the production, which organisers hope will attract additional corporate sponsorship. Since its soft launch, the show has continued to secure commercial partners, positioning itself as a marketing platform for brands targeting younger audiences.
Further details on the competition format, broadcast schedule and voting procedures will be unveiled during Sunday’s launch as Zimbabwe seeks to establish its place in Southern Africa’s competitive reality television market.
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