This year marks 25 years since Takalani Sesame, South Africa’s beloved educational children’s programme, first aired. Since its debut on 31 July 2000, the show has become a cornerstone of early childhood learning, combining engaging storytelling with life lessons on health, inclusion, and emotional well-being. What began as a pioneering television project is now a household staple, reaching more than seven million viewers and embraced by 95% of homes with young children.
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From television to community
To commemorate its 25-year milestone, Sesame Workshop South Africa, the nonprofit behind Takalani Sesame, held a series of celebrations and outreach events this week. These included visits to founding partners—the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the SABC—as well as a stop at the I Can Day Care Centre in Pimville, Soweto.
Dr Onyinye Nwaneri, managing director of Sesame Workshop South Africa, expressed gratitude for the enduring support of their partners. “Takalani Sesame began as a pioneering television show and has now become a cultural mainstay,” she said. “We are proud to celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire and educate children across the country.”
Partnering for national progress
A key focus of the anniversary campaign was Takalani Sesame’s ongoing partnership with the Department of Basic Education to promote early childhood development (ECD). This collaboration forms part of the Bana Pele (Putting Children First) campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at ensuring that all young learners have access to safe, high-quality, registered ECD services.
Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, joined the celebrations and travelled to ECD centres in Mpumalanga and the Northern Cape, with further visits planned for the Eastern Cape. Families had the chance to meet familiar Takalani Sesame characters and participate in interactive storytelling sessions.
“Takalani Sesame is a much-loved educational brand that has supported generations of young South African children with fun and engaging learning,” Gwarube said. “Sesame Workshop aligns with our vision to put our youngest citizens first and prioritise early learning as a national imperative.”
A platform that amplifies every voice
The SABC, which has aired the programme since its inception, hosted its own celebration at its offices to mark the anniversary. “The SABC has truly been a wonderful partner, providing us with a platform to reach millions of children over the last 25 years,” said Nwaneri. She reflected on the show’s rich legacy, recalling appearances by late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, football stars Banyana Banyana, musicians like Sho Madjozi, and comedians including David Kau and The Goliaths.
Jacqui Hlongwane, genre manager for SABC Education and Children, praised the show’s contribution to the broadcaster’s mission. “For 25 years, Takalani Sesame has supported early childhood education, health, and social inclusion, helping the SABC deliver on its children’s education and language mandates,” she said.
Importantly, the show is broadcast in most of South Africa’s official languages, making it both accessible and relevant to children across diverse communities. Hlongwane added, “We extend our warmest congratulations and wish Takalani Sesame a very happy birthday.”
An enduring celebration of children
From classrooms to television screens, Takalani Sesame continues to lead the way in educational content that is fun, inclusive and impactful. With its multilingual reach, dynamic characters and deep community ties, it stands as a testament to what’s possible when children’s education is placed at the heart of national development. As the celebrations continue, one message rings clear: Takalani Sesame is more than a television programme – it’s a celebration of childhood itself.
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Featured Image: Website | takalanisesame.org.za
