Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Calls for a boycott of South African music duo Mafikizolo’s upcoming performance in Zimbabwe continue to intensify, with musicians, entertainers and social media users arguing that the concert comes at a time when many Zimbabweans are concerned about the treatment of fellow citizens in South Africa.
The award-winning duo is scheduled to perform at the Buddie Beatz Concert in Victoria Falls on July 5, but the announcement has sparked widespread debate online.
Critics say the show sends the wrong message while reports of xenophobic attacks and the repatriation of Zimbabweans remain a major concern.
Comedienne Felistas “Mai TT” Murata questioned the timing of the concert, saying Zimbabweans should first stand in solidarity with those affected.
“I know Zimbabweans are naturally kind-hearted, but it hurts to see us promoting musicians while our fellow Zimbabweans are allegedly being chased away from South Africa. We do not hate them, but for now our country should put its people first. What exactly are we celebrating? Xenophobia? No,” she wrote.
Taurai Kandishaya shared similar sentiments, saying influential artistes should use their voices to condemn violence.
“I believe musicians have the influence to advocate for what is right in our communities. I thought that by now Mafikizolo could have spoken strongly against what is happening in South Africa. We cannot have a party in a village where there is a funeral,” he said.
Joining the discussion, Bruce Ncube addressed Mafikizolo directly in an emotional social media post, stressing that Zimbabweans still appreciate the duo, but believe the timing of the performance is inappropriate.
“I am sure millions of Zimbabweans would agree that we do not hold anything against you for accepting the booking and wanting to do your job. For the longest time, you have been one of the groups we have always welcomed to our country,” he wrote.
“I have had the privilege of performing at events where you also performed, and I felt honoured to be among some of Africa’s music giants. I know how much my people love you. Your music has touched millions, and many consider you their idols.”
However, Ncube said the current situation demanded solidarity rather than celebration.
“At this point, it feels wrong. It feels like betrayal. It is bad timing. It is an insult for Zimbabweans to be inviting you to perform in Victoria Falls while our people in South Africa are facing one of the toughest periods of their lives,” he said. He added that companies and event organisers should prioritise standing with ordinary Zimbabweans.
“They should be showing solidarity with the people whose hard-earned money keeps their businesses going. Many Zimbabweans in South Africa have been forced to leave, whether legally or illegally, and it appears that many people no longer care about their suffering,” he wrote.
Another social media user, Ashford Chimombe, also called for promoters to suspend bookings of South African artistes until tensions ease.
“There should be no more South African artistes performing in Zimbabwe. Promoters should wait until this issue is resolved,” he said.
Despite the growing criticism, others have defended Mafikizolo, arguing that artistes should not be blamed for political and social problems beyond their control.
They believe music should continue to unite people across borders rather than deepen divisions.
At the time of writing, neither Mafikizolo nor the organisers of the Buddie Beatz Concert had publicly responded to the boycott calls, leaving uncertainty over whether the performance will proceed as scheduled.
