Three of Nelson Mandela's granddaughters are launching a reality show about their lives as South African socialite businesswomen. They swear they're "definitely not the African Kardashians." Hmm, really? Let's meet the ladies:

  • Zaziwe Dlamini-Manaway, age 34, is "involved in a family business" and "plans to launch a clothing line." Granddaughter of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Zaziwe is the "mother figure" of the show, with two children under the age of 10 and a third due in January. Kardashian equivalent: Kourtney.
  • Dorothy Adjoa Amuah, age 27, is "a socialite with a law degree and an MBA from Monaco." She works "in the luxury brands market" and is the granddaughter of Evelyn Mandela." Kardashian equivalent: Kim.
  • Swati Dlamini, age 32, "a single mother getting back into the career world," hopefully by setting up a charitable foundation. Granddaughter of Winnie and sister of Zaziwe. Kardashian equivalent: Khloe, by default.

Producers say the show is "not going to detract from the dignity of Nelson Mandela," and will include appearances from other Mandela family members.

"This is supposed to be about the dynamics of Africa and how it's changing," Swati says. "We're not wearing 'I'm a Mandela' t-shirts." (Until Zaziwe launches her clothing line?) "We are exposing Africa for what it is," says Dorothy, "with a new middle class of intellectuals." All three women were all raised in the U.S. and returned to South Africa in adulthood.

The show premieres in 2012. I'm trying to reserve judgment until they announce the name. (If it's "Keeping Up with the Mandelas," I plan to freak out.) South Africans: Know more? Update us. [MG, AP, image via Getty]