Black Diva Sparks Debate Over Bulawayo Fans’ Preference for South African Artists

Singer and model Black Diva has ignited a heated debate after posting a social media rant targeting fans in Bulawayo. She criticized locals for embracing South African artists she described as “washed up,” claiming they wouldn’t have noticed Zimbabwean talent when topping charts in their prime.

The comments came shortly after South African rapper Fifi Cooper collaborated with Maskandi singers Aphiwe and Sobancane, following veteran Sandra Ndebele’s release with Platform One. Black Diva expressed frustration that Bulawayo fans and musicians often celebrate foreign acts instead of supporting successful local artists.

“Bulawayo will rather celebrate an artist from South Africa owaphela/akapera 10 years ago than to celebrate their own who is doing well shame!! They know that they are washed up, so they start coming to us for collaborations to gain more strength. When are we going to elevate Matabeleland?” Black Diva wrote.

Comedian Jaro backed her claims, noting that Matabeleland artists often perform as opening acts for South African musicians, receiving minimal payment while the foreign artists maintain their status. “Sorry, guys, but I agree with Black Diva. When S.A artists are topping the charts and high flying, they hardly collaborate with Matabeleland artists, but our guys are always curtain-raisers on their shows in Bulawayo and get paid peanuts. Do you tell me that they don’t see the talent?” he said.

Not all artists agreed with Black Diva’s assessment. Female rapper Awa Khiwe said she has received significant support from South African creatives during their peak. She cited Sjava, Zakwe, and actor Abdul Khoza, who went out of his way to promote her work. “I consider myself lucky. Sjava, Zakwe, and so many S.A. creatives have shared my work. I was trending on SA Twitter for days. Abdul Khoza supported me for years and even travelled to Nkayi during a busy schedule to direct Rap Gandaganda because he believed in me. I don’t know who the washed-up artists many seem to be tiptoeing around. But I would be an ungrateful person if I did not correct that this has not been my experience,” Awa Khiwe explained.

The debate highlights ongoing tension between local talent and the preference for foreign artists, with fans and musicians split on whether Zimbabwean performers are given enough recognition. The conversation continues online as Black Diva and her supporters call for greater support of Matabeleland artists.