Mama Joy Chauke, widely known for her exuberant support of South African sports teams, has found herself at the center of controversy recently, with many of her headlines being less than flattering. The vibrant sports fanatic has faced growing criticism, particularly regarding her recent photo opportunities.
This comes in the wake of the nation mourning the loss of former South African Reserve Bank Governor Tito Mboweni, who passed away after a short illness. As tributes poured in from all corners of the country, including from major corporate brands, many expressed heartfelt sorrow over the beloved figure.
In recent years, Mboweni had gained a significant following on social media, where he often shared his love for cooking, with canned fish being a staple in many of his dishes. To honour him, Lucky Star—the brand behind the canned fish he frequently used—was among the first to pay tribute online, acknowledging his impact both as a statesman and an internet personality.
Despite the overwhelming outpouring of grief and respect for Mboweni, Mama Joy’s involvement in recent events has drawn criticism, with many questioning the appropriateness of her actions during such a solemn time.
We lost a true South African Icon💔🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/SXuKPC8AW7
— Lucky Star (@LuckyStarSA) October 13, 2024
Mama Joy jumped on the bandwagon, cooking a stew with canned fish in his memory.
Lucky Star Challenge Mamajoy is eating Lucky Star Tinned fish on behalf of Mr Tito Mboweni RIP @LuckyStarSA Dankooo pic.twitter.com/CakiUUgriu
— MamaJoy Chauke (@JoyChauke5) October 13, 2024
She even credited Mboweni for her love of the dish.
May your soul rest in Peace Mr Tito Mboweni @LuckyStarSA I now eat this Tinned Fish cos of him Danko pic.twitter.com/KbnGZQeLhj
— MamaJoy Chauke (@JoyChauke5) October 13, 2024
But her tribute wasn’t well received. Many slammed her for seeming opportunistic. One user, @Yandisa87376189, commented: “A chance to make money out of the situation. Some people have no shame.”
A chance to make money out of the said situation. Some people have no shame 😩
— The investor🇿🇦 (@Yandisa87376189) October 13, 2024
Sit down wena… you have no shame, sies.
— Me. I am Neo 🇵🇸🇵🇸🇵🇸 (@NeoMerafi) October 14, 2024
This Mama Joy character gives narcissism a new meaning 😂
Poor kid can’t even show his Ronwen artwork coz motho o nyaka camera time 💀 pic.twitter.com/Thc9QGJzBl
— Khensani (@bhutikhens) October 11, 2024