JOHANNESBURG – A war of words has erupted between former Ukhozi FM presenter Ngizwe Mchunu and maskandi star Khuzani Mpungose, with Ngizwe taking aim at Khuzani's lavish home expansion project in Nkandla, northern KZN.
Ngizwe, known for his outspoken nature, has expressed his disapproval of Khuzani's decision to build multiple houses on his property, claiming that the singer is "building houses left, right and centre, as if he was making cottages for his tokoloshes."
The "tokoloshe" is a mischievous spirit in Zulu folklore, often depicted as a small, hairy creature with a penchant for causing trouble. Ngizwe's statement, while seemingly humorous, reflects his disapproval of Khuzani's extravagant spending.
He went on to suggest that Khuzani might even own a "Mamlambo," a large snake believed to be a powerful spirit in Zulu culture, further fueling speculation about his motives for building so many houses.
Khuzani, however, has remained unfazed by Ngizwe's criticism, stating that he is simply providing for his family.
He said that he is "not going to respond to what Ngizwe said. Ngizwe Mchunu will always be Ngizwe, I'm not going to entertain him. But it humbles me that people have started a house-building challenge because of what I did."
Khuzani's actions seem to have inspired other artists, with gospel singer Jumbo Nyangiwe revealing that he has also begun building a large house, citing Khuzani as his inspiration.
Jumbo, a 43-year-old from Umzimkhulu in KZN, is known for his gospel music but also has a passion for maskandi. He recently released a song titled "Noma Ungavala," featuring Khuzani.
"I believe that Khuzani is challenging all of us to change the situation of our families and also change the images of our homes. I took what he's doing as a challenge. Now I'm building an 11-room house at home. I'm inspired and glad that other people have accepted the challenge and have started building houses," said Jumbo.
Jumbo's statement suggests that Khuzani's building project has sparked a trend among artists, with many seeing it as a challenge to improve their own living standards and provide for their families.
