Media figure Bonang Matheba confronted Gayton McKenzie on X on September 14, 2026, responding critically to his plans to host Jay-Z’s JAŸ-Z30 concert in the nation. This prompted a vigorous debate on social media.
The dispute arose following McKenzie’s updates from his visit to France, where he attended the Lumière film summit and received an invitation from Roc Nation to view the JAŸ-Z30 concert. McKenzie stated he was adamant that the concert must be brought to South African fans, positioning it as a cultural milestone for the nation.
Bonang did not hold back. In a quote-tweet, she responded:
“Brought to SA? Why? What about the SAMAs? SAFTAs? The locals need money, Sir!! Let’s start THERE!”
Focus on SAMAs, SAFTAs, and the creative industry
Queen B criticized the current state of two key national award shows: the South African Music Awards and the South African Film and Television Awards, both of which are experiencing mounting criticism for insufficient funding and lack of support for local talent. Her stance resonates with a broader concern among artists who argue that governmental focus should be directed toward enhancing the domestic entertainment environment prior to funding foreign events.
Divided opinions in Mzansi
The exchange between Bonang and McKenzie drew mixed reactions from the public online. Many users expressed solidarity with Bonang, voicing their discontent over the current circumstances of the local arts sector.
@Nina_Fox_ remarked:
“Yoh, Ausi Bonang, actors are dying broke! Kganthe, what do we need to do mara ye to be heard? What needs to happen? The arts are in shambles! I hate his guts!”
@Nyaxsta commented:
“Dude living his best life, prioritizing his wildest fantasies with our s’tax! Infuriating! They are all shameless; just that he got a record, but no one’s going to call him out. The cunning always appear to thrive. Sad state of affairs. ZAR needs a revolution, I’m afraid.”
@PulseOnlineInfo stated:
“From Nathi Mthethwa to Gayton. They must not breathe.”
@Mr1000Gs said:
“What can you expect from Gayton in that portfolio? RAMAPHOSA scammed us by electing this dude.”
@TheThanos_War was forthright:
“This thug is just a groupie. He still can’t believe he came out of jail and went on to be a Minister. How does he even know anything about sport and arts?”
