By Patience Gondo
SOUTH African singer and influencer Naledi Aphiwe Mnyongwane faces renewed backlash from Zimbabwean fans after issuing an apology on February 24 months after making remarks widely interpreted as xenophobic and only after being announced as a headliner for the Ama2K Festival.
The controversy dates back to May 2025 when a Zimbabwean fan Constance Muzenda, commented on Naledi’s TikTok video saying,
“Naledi please come to Zimbabwe.”
Naledi responded in isiZulu: “Hambani ngiyonilinda khona.”
The phrase loosely translates to Go back home, I will meet you there.
Many Zimbabweans interpreted the response as carrying a xenophobic undertone suggesting that there are too many Zimbaweans in South Africa.
At the time, the comment drew attention online but eventually faded.
However, the issue resurfaced after Naledi was unveiled as a performer for the annual Ama2K Festival set for Saturday, 4 April at Belgravia Sports Club in Harare.
Social media users quickly circulated screenshots of the old TikTok exchange, accusing her of disrespecting Zimbabweans while benefiting from their support.
Under mounting pressure, Naledi issued a public apology February 2026.
In her statement, she wrote:
“Social media never forgets, and I’ve been reminded of a comment I made a few months ago. I want to address it properly instead of ignoring it. First, I want to make it clear that my words were never meant to disrespect Zimbabweans or come from a place of hate. I understand that intentions don’t always translate well online, and I can see how what I said may have hurt or offended people. For that, I sincerely apologise.”
But the apology has done little to calm the storm.
Many Zimbabwean fans are questioning the timing.
Online debates intensified, with some arguing that the apology came only after she secured a spot on the festival lineup.
“THE cans with sand and urine might come from all angles while she is on stage. I know my Zim brothers,” Ginger Happiness commented on TikTok.
“It’s too late. If you don’t know Zimbabweans you are going to know them properly, don’t worry,” Ryan Mlambo wrote on X.
“Social media doesn’t forget my sister,” Jakata Mavis added.
Across platforms, users are accusing the singer of apologising out of fear of being booed during her Harare performance.
Others argue that had she not been booked for the festival, the apology would never have come.
As the April show approaches, discussions continue to trend online, with some calling for her removal from the lineup while others say she should be allowed to perform and prove her sincerity on stage.
She will be sharing stage with Ruger and Scotts Maphuma.