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Keitu Kasonkola (born 4 July 1988) is a South African actress, writer, facilitator, speaker, voice artist, MC, and producer. She is best known for her television roles as Jane Latau/Ratau in the SABC2 Setswana sitcom Ga Re Dumele (2011–2013) and as Talitha More (often referred to as “Mommy Dearest” or Mama Taps) in the long-running e.tv soap opera Scandal!. (1)

As of 2026, at age 37, she remains active in Scandal! and other projects, inspiring many with her journey from a determined young performer who defied expectations to a respected, multi-talented figure in Mzansi entertainment.

Biography Profile

Real Full Name: Keitumetse Kasonkola

Place of Birth: Mahikeng, North West

Date of Birth: 4 July 1988 (Age - 37 Years Old)

Occupation: Actress, Writer, Voice Artist

Known as: Talitha More in Scandal etv

Nationality: South African

Early Life and Education of Keitu Kasonkola

Keitumetse Kasonkola was born and raised in Mahikeng (formerly Mafikeng), North West province, South Africa. She comes from a family where her father initially hoped she would pursue a career in engineering. During high school, she had an honest conversation with him, explaining that her true passion lay in performing arts rather than technical fields. She attended Pretoria High School for Girls, graduating in 2006. She then pursued higher education at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in Johannesburg, where she earned a BA in Dramatic Arts (graduating around 2014). (2)

Growing up, she dreamed of action-packed roles, once aspiring to star alongside martial arts icons like Jackie Chan or Jet Li as their combat partner.

Acting Career of Keitu Kasonkola

Keitu’s breakthrough came with her first major television role as Jane Latau (sometimes spelled Ratau) in the popular Setswana sitcom Ga Re Dumele. She joined the series in its second season, replacing another actress, and portrayed the character from 2011 to 2013. Her natural delivery in Setswana and warm on-screen presence earned her recognition, and she later paid heartfelt tributes to her on-screen mother, the late veteran actress Meme Ditshego. (3)

She has appeared in several other productions, including:

• Guest role in the second season of the SABC1 sitcom Thandeka’s Diary (2016).
• Nkele in Champions Mzansi.
• Roles in He’s Not Ready (2024), Kleva-ish (2023), and Motswako (2024).
• Appearances in shows such as Generations, Generations: The Legacy, Ludik, and Sokhulu & Partners.

In Scandal!, she plays Talitha More, a protective wife and mother to characters like Tiro, Taps, and Thorisa, married to Kgopolo More. Keitu has described this role as one of her most challenging and “scariest” because she portrays a significantly older character who is deeply invested in safeguarding her family, fortune, and reputation amid dramatic storylines. Fans and producers have noted her ability to convincingly embody a mature matriarch despite being in her mid-30s.

Beyond scripted acting, Keitu is a versatile performer who excels in voice work, hosting (MC), and producing content. She has spoken openly about the realities of freelance life in the South African entertainment industry, including periods of slow progress, the need for resilience, and the importance of embracing multiple talents to sustain a career.

Personal Life of Keitu Kasonkola

Keitu is a single mother to a son. She has shared candidly about her journey into motherhood, including experiencing postpartum challenges that initially affected bonding with her child. With support, she navigated this period and describes herself as a dedicated and present mom. She often reflects on life “on her own terms,” emphasizing purpose, passion, and personal growth over societal expectations around marriage. She values her Setswana roots, family connections (referring affectionately to her “Serite gang”), and staying grounded amid her career.

Other Ventures and Public Persona

Keitu positions herself as a multifaceted artist driven by “purpose through passion.” She facilitates workshops, speaks publicly, and writes. Her social media presence highlights her work, behind-the-scenes moments, family life, and motivational insights.

• Instagram: @keitu_kasonkola – where she shares acting updates, personal reflections, and creative projects.
• Facebook: @Kei2Kas – focused on her artistic ventures.

She is praised for her authentic, humble, and relatable demeanor, with many noting her fluent and engaging Setswana delivery, sometimes compared to comedian Tumi Morake’s style. Keitu continues to build her career with a focus on meaningful roles and diverse creative outlets.

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