DStv Pulls the Plug on Yadah TV Amid Scandal Surrounding Prophet Walter Magaya

South African broadcasting giant DStv has officially announced that it will cease airing Yadah TV as of 31 January 2025. This decision has come at a time of growing controversy surrounding the owner of the channel, Prophet Walter Magaya, who leads the Prophetic, Healing, and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries. While DStv has not provided specific reasons for the termination, the timing coincides with mounting public scrutiny of Magaya, particularly in relation to a forgery scandal involving his educational qualifications.

Magaya, whose reputation has been under fire in recent years, is now embroiled in allegations of fabricating a diploma and an honorary doctorate from the University of South Africa (UNISA). The accusations came to light earlier this week when UK-based journalist Maynard Manyowa exposed the cleric’s involvement in the scandal. According to Manyowa, he had written to UNISA to verify Magaya’s claims of holding a diploma from the institution. UNISA’s response confirmed that the diploma and honorary doctorate were not legitimate, with Magaya’s name not appearing in their records.

The scandal has made headlines not only in Zimbabwe but internationally, further tarnishing Magaya’s already controversial image. This revelation comes after Magaya used the fabricated qualifications in his bid to contest the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) elections. He had submitted the forged documents as proof of his educational background when he was disqualified from the elections for failing to provide the necessary O’ Level certificates. However, the High Court ruled against him, affirming that he should have submitted the required documentation.

While DStv’s decision to terminate its contract with Yadah TV is significant, the broadcaster has not linked the controversy to the channel’s closure. However, it is clear that the ongoing scandals surrounding Magaya have raised concerns. Yadah TV has been broadcasting in Zimbabwe and beyond, providing a platform for religious and spiritual content. Yet, with Magaya’s recent troubles, DStv’s decision has brought the issue to the forefront, marking the end of an era for the channel.

Magaya, who has previously made headlines for both positive and negative reasons, has not yet commented on DStv’s decision to cut ties with Yadah TV. It remains to be seen how this development will affect his ministry and the future of the channel, which has had a significant following.

This incident serves as a reminder of the growing importance of transparency and credibility, particularly for public figures who hold influence in both religious and media spaces. With the news continuing to unfold, all eyes will be on Magaya’s next steps, as he faces further legal challenges over the scandal.