Amapiano artist MaWhoo, whose real name is Thandeka Ngema, has been asked to issue a formal apology after allegedly referring to the organizers of the Durban Music Festival as “scammers” in a WhatsApp voice note. Gregory Wings, the festival’s organizer, confirmed that a letter has been sent to MaWhoo regarding the matter.
The artist is currently in a dispute over several issues, including flight schedule discrepancies and claims of unpaid fees. In the voice note, MaWhoo reportedly said she would not perform unless she received full payment, emphasizing the need for a manager to handle such situations. She also expressed concerns about payment being made the day before the event, particularly with an international artist involved, and pointed out the omission of “PTY” from her company name.
Wings stated that the formal letter requested MaWhoo and her company, MaWhoo Entertainment PTY LTD, to retract her statement and apologize by May 19, 2025.
The voice note was sent to a Blue Screen employee who was addressing flight issues to ensure MaWhoo would fulfill her contractual obligations after payment. However, her use of the word “scammers” has caused tension with Blue Screen Entertainment.
Brian Steel, head of legal at Blue Screen Entertainment, said MaWhoo was contracted to perform at the Durban Music Festival on May 3, 2025, and had been fully paid. Her comments allegedly damaged the company’s reputation, leading them to demand a written or recorded apology. If she does not comply, they are prepared to take legal action against her for R1 million without further notice.
In 2024, MaWhoo had also threatened legal action against another organizer over a dispute involving a missed performance.