PICTURE: X/ USHUNI WOMHLABA WINNER
PR and marketing agency, After 12 accuses SABC1’s Ushuni Womhlaba for not paying the services they were hired for.
The marketing agency alleges that they rendered services to Thabo Mphelo Films for the production of the music talent search show, Ushuni Womhlaba that was later won by Joliza Bhacasoul.
Ushuni Womhlaba aired on SABC1 from January to October 2024, this show was unique in celebrating and unearthing talent in traditional South African music genres such as Maskandi, uMbhaqanga, Isicathamiya, Afro-pop, and various folk music styles.
According to the statement issued, After12 was contracted to handle media relations, marketing, social media and website development which led to R86 250 payment that had to be made.
“Despite the immense success of the show, its executive producer, Thabo Mphelo has consistently failed to honour financial commitments, leaving service providers, contestants and stakeholders unpaid since October 2024,” read the statement.
The agency alleged that Thabo has repeatedly made empty promises and shifted the blame to the headline sponsor of the show, Telkom and SABC accusing them of being the reason to the failure of payment.
Entertainment commentator, Phil Mphela took to his X (formerly Twitter) to share the statement.
TV:
SABC1 show accused of non-payment of services rendered
PR and Marketing agency, After21 Communications is threatening legal action after non payment of service from Thabo Mphela Films.
After21 Communications alleges that it is owed over R86k.
The company worked on… pic.twitter.com/CCXCFpK9wZ
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) March 24, 2025
X users weighed in.
Yet another production company not paying service providers. It’s become standard operating procedure in in SA. Contracts mean nothing, no intervention from our government agencies, and no consequences. No wonder international funders no longer trust investing in our industry.
— cheryl vilakazi ⭐️⭐️ (@zottyzulu) March 24, 2025
Not so long ago, it was reported that Ushuni Womhlaba struggled to pay the winners, Joliza Bhacasoul, Lindo and Gudazi.
As the ultimate winner, Joliza took home R500 000, Lindo achieved the runner-up position with R300 000, while Gudazi the second runner-up took R200 000. According to online reports, Thabo struggled with payments, prompting the artists to email the public broadcaster directly to seek for intervention.
Also see: Joliza Bhacasoul takes home the uShuni Womhlaba title
