ANCYL accuses McKenzie of ‘abusing’ superfans & creatives

McKenzie made the announcement on his X profile on Tuesday - saying the funds that were used on superfans will now go where they are needed the most. 

He made the announcement some two weeks before the start of the Olympic Games in Paris. 

"The Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture's primary role is to create a nurturing environment for our creatives and artists, offering them the support they need to excel. This includes recognising and celebrating superfans like Mama Joy Chauke, who passionately support our national teams," said ANCYL spokesperson Zama Khanyase.

The ANCYL is not the only organisation that has called out McKenzie for his actions, but some people on X (formerly Twitter) were also unhappy: 

@EdgarLegole tweeted:  "I honestly don't support Minister Gayron McKenzie's decision to cancel trips for our superfans. Mama Joy and others like her serve as brand ambassadors for South Africa. The bring our spirit, our culture and passion for sport across the globe". 

-THE LIST-

The department also posted a list of artists and musicians who benefited from the Covid-19 relief fund.

The Covid-19 relief fund aimed to assist the creative industry during the 2020/1 lockdown.

Beneficiaries include the Rebecca Malope Foundation, Abanye Bayombona Music Production CC (Deborah Fraser), Arthur Mafokate and his son and Betusile Mcinga. 

The list was published after BET award-winning musician Makhadzi announced that she used her own money to attend the BET awards in the United States last week. 

Responding to Makhadzi's claims, the department said it had supported Makhadzi through performance gigs amounting to R230,000.

"The department therefore rejects the notion of creatives who have received support from the department, inferring that they have not received support to pursue their dreams". 

Khanyase says McKenzie should prioritise understanding the department and fostering positive relationships with creatives, artists, and superfans rather than attacking them.

"The Parliamentary Committee on Sports, Arts, and Culture must hold the department accountable for these actions. We demand that the department fulfil its duties while upholding the principles of Batho Pele and ensuring fair and respectful treatment of all stakeholders.

"The ANCYL will not sit back and watch the department abuse artists, creatives, and superfans.”

SEE THE FULL LIST OF THE COVID-19 RELIEF BENEFICIARIES: