A public spat has erupted between media personality Bonang Matheba and Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie after the Minister posted from Jay-Z’s concert in Paris, expressing his ambition to bring the superstar’s show to South Africa as part of his vision to make the country Africa’s premier events destination. Matheba, one of South Africa’s most influential entertainment figures, was quick to respond, questioning the Minister’s priorities and calling for greater support for local events and artists.
McKenzie shared his excitement from the JAŸ-Z30 concert on social media, writing that securing such high-profile international acts would boost tourism and position South Africa as a global events hub. While the ambition was applauded by some, Matheba countered sharply, arguing that local institutions like the South African Music Awards (SAMAs) and the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) are chronically underfunded and struggling to deliver world-class productions.
“Before we chase Jay-Z, how about we fund the SAMAs and SAFTAs properly so our own artists can shine on a world-class stage?” Matheba posted. “Charity begins at home. Our creatives need conditions that allow them to thrive, not crumbs while we roll out the red carpet for international stars.”
McKenzie hit back, defending his record and pointing to increased budgets for the SAFTAs and job creation from major concerts such as Chris Brown’s recent tour. He argued that attracting global acts and supporting local talent are not mutually exclusive, and that the economic spin-offs from international events benefit the entire creative ecosystem.
The exchange has ignited a broader debate about the balance between attracting international mega-events and investing in domestic arts and culture. Supporters of McKenzie argue that his strategy is necessary to grow the pie, while Matheba’s defenders insist that local artists and institutions must be prioritised first.
As the war of words continues, the exchange highlights a tension that is unlikely to be resolved quickly: how to position South Africa on the global stage without neglecting the artists who call it home. For now, both figures remain vocal, and the conversation—however uncomfortable—is one the industry cannot afford to ignore.
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