JSE-listed government-owned entity Telkom, which is the headline sponsor of Ushuni Womhlaba, will be meeting different stakeholders linked to the talent search competition on Monday in an attempt to iron out issues.
Ushuni Womhlaba is a music talent search competition that aired on SABC1 from July to October 2024.
This comes after Sunday World reported that After12 Communications is disappointed by the continued non-payment of services rendered to Thabo Mphelo, the owner of Thabo Mphelo Films, for the production of Ushuni Womhlaba.
Linda Mnisi, the CEO of the company contracted to handle media relations, marketing, social media, and website development for Ushuni Womhlaba, said they were still owed R86 250.
This is a small amount compared to the unpaid winnings still owed to the top three contestants, who were promised financial prizes for their achievements on the show.
Empty promises
According to After12 Communications, Mphelo has repeatedly made empty promises and shifted the blame to Telkom and SABC, accusing them of being the reasons for his failure to pay outstanding amounts.
He has alleged that the SABC has not paid him money owed for the show and that Telkom overextended him financially, leading to budget overruns.
The sponsor was contacted by Sunday World, which acknowledged the issues with unpaid Ushuni Womhlaba season one payments.
“We regret that this situation has not yet been resolved and understand the frustration it has caused. As a sponsor, Telkom remains committed to supporting platforms that empower South African talent,” the company said.
“While we were not responsible for the administration of payments, we recognise the importance of ensuring that all participants are treated fairly.
“We have engaged with the relevant stakeholders and continue to urge that this matter be resolved without further delay. We will continue to monitor the situation closely.”
Working on resolving the matter
Mmoni Ngubane, the head of communications at the SABC, confirmed that the broadcast partner for the programme, uShuni Womhlaba, was licensed through the production house Thabo Mphela Film.
“The SABC has been made aware of the challenges faced by the production house in paying the winners, and the SABC has been advised by the production house that they are working on resolving the matter with the winners,” said Ngubane.
“After12 Communications [service provider] was contracted directly by the production company [Thabo Mphelo Films]. Therefore, the issue of non-payment should be directed to Thabo Mphela Films.”
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