In the Big Brother Mzansi house, we've got a collection of incredible housemates from different parts of South Africa, making it a home of many colours. We're here to provide the tea on the provinces they rep and share some fun facts – like what languages they chat in, their go-to food, and the threads they rock. 

Eastern Cape

Liema, Meelay, Sammy_M and Sinaye hail from the Eastern Cape, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. With a history that is deeply tied to the struggle against apartheid, the province stands as a beacon of resilience and cultural vibrancy. 

• Traditional clothing: Xhosa people dominate this region, and their traditional clothing includes the iconic Xhosa attire, characterised by colourful beadwork, blankets, and intricate designs.
• Traditional food: Umngqusho, a hearty dish of samp and beans, holds cultural significance and is often served on special occasions.
• Spoken language: isiXhosa is the predominant language.
• Fun fact: isiXhosa was the langauage spoken in Marvels's Black Panther's kingdom of Wakanda. 

Free State 

Lerato Modise's home, the Free State province, is often referred to as the "breadbasket" of South Africa and is known for its vast agricultural landscapes. Bloemfontein, the provincial capital, is not only an educational hub but also offers a serene escape with its parks and historical architecture.

• Traditional clothing: The Basotho people, with a significant presence in the Free State, have distinctive traditional clothing. The Basotho blanket, adorned with vibrant geometric patterns, holds cultural significance and is often worn with pride.
• Language: Sesotho is widely spoken in the Free State.
• Traditional food: Free State is known for its hearty cuisine, and a notable dish is the famous "Motoho," a fermented porridge made from sorghum or maize. 
• Fun fact: The province's plains are adorned with golden fields of maize and wheat, contributing significantly to the country's food production. Bloemfontein is also known as the City Of Roses.

Gauteng 

Gauteng, the economic hub of South Africa, is a bustling province with a dynamic urban landscape. Johannesburg, also known as the "City of Gold," has a history rooted in the gold rush, shaping its vibrant and cosmopolitan character. Housemates Makhekhe, PapaGhost, Willy, Jareed, Mpumi. Els, Pale and Disruptor Fahima are the housemates who tell the story of Gauteng's vibrancy and cultural diversity. 

• Traditional clothing: Gauteng is an amalgamation of diverse cultures, and traditional clothing reflects this diversity. Attire ranges from Sotho to Zulu, each with its unique style.
• Traditional food: A provincial staple is boerewors and pap that can be found anytime at a bustling local chesa nyama.
• Spoken language: Predominantly isiZulu and isiSotho.
• Fun fact:  Gauteng is a fashion hotspot, with Johannesburg at the forefront of the African fashion scene. The city hosts events like South African Fashion Week, showcasing local and international design talent.

KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal, known for its rich Zulu heritage, is the birthplace of the Zulu Kingdom. From pristine beaches to untamed reserves, KwaZulu-Natal offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. McJunior, Disruptor Taki and Zee, with the latter two having roots in other provinces, have the honour of calling this place home. 

• Traditional clothing: Zulu culture heavily influences traditional clothing, featuring brightly coloured beadwork and distinctive accessories.
• Traditional food: The province's cuisine is a blend of flavours influenced by Zulu, Indian, and colonial culinary traditions. Durban, in particular, is renowned for its spicy and aromatic Indian-inspired dishes, such as the iconic bunny chow.
• Spoken language: isiZulu is the primary language.
• Fun fact: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity. It encompasses diverse ecosystems, including estuaries, coral reefs, and savannahs, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Limpopo 

Limpopo is home to Mapungubwe National Park, an archaeological site where the ancient Kingdom of Mapungubwe flourished. The province's landscape is dotted with baobab trees, creating a surreal and timeless atmosphere. Limpopo invites visitors to explore its historical and natural treasures and you will be visiting the home of housemates Chuenzaaa, Disruptor Taki and Yolanda. 

• Traditional clothing: Venda and Tsonga cultures influence clothing, adorned with colourful patterns and beadwork.
• Traditional food: Try the delicious Mopani worms, a protein-rich delicacy enjoyed by many in the region.
• Spoken language: Sepedi and Xitsonga are widely spoken.
• Fun fact: The Modjadji Royal Kraal, situated in Limpopo, serves as the focal point of the Rain Queen's activities, where she carries out her ceremonial duties and maintains the traditions associated with her unique role in Balobedu society.

Mpumalanga 

Mpumalanga, translating to "the place where the sun rises," is characterised by breathtaking landscapes. The province is home to the Panorama Route, showcasing wonders like God's Window and Bourke's Luck Potholes. It is also home to Mich and Disruptor Neo. 

• Traditional clothing: Ndebele culture is prominent, with vibrant geometric patterns and bold colours defining their traditional attire.
• Traditional food: Delight in the taste of potjiekos, a slow-cooked stew prepared in a cast-iron pot over an open flame.
• Spoken language: isiSwati and isiNdebele.
• Fun fact: The province is renowned for the stunning Blyde River Canyon, offering breathtaking views.

Northern Cape

YoungPappi's origins are firmly rooted iin the Northern Cape, a region known for its world-renowned astronomy destinations, and home to the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO). With its vast, unpolluted skies, the province offers an ideal environment for stargazing, attracting astronomers and astrophotographers from around the globe.

• Traditional clothing: San and Nama cultures influence traditional clothing, characterised by animal hides and earthy tones.
• Traditional food: Explore the flavours of biltong, a popular cured meat snack enjoyed across South Africa.
• Spoken language: Afrikaans, Setswana, and isiXhosa.
• Fun fact: The province boasts the Augrabies Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in South Africa.

Watch the housemates speak about their favourite Mzansi dishes: 

Big Brother Mzansi season 4 S’ya Mosha is live 24/7 on DStv channel 198. Don't miss the nominations show on Monday from 20:00 - 21:00. Join the conversation online using the hashtag #BBMzansi and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok! Stay connected to DStv to watch every minute.