Mawhoo slapped with defamation lawsuit
Amapiano sensation Nontobeko Thandeka Ngema, popularly known as Mawhoo, is facing serious legal trouble after being hit with a R1 million defamation lawsuit.
The suit was filed by Blue Screen Entertainment in the KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Durban, following an explosive fallout after her appearance at the Durban Music Festival.
According to court documents obtained by Sunday World, the dispute stems from statements allegedly made by Ngema after her performance at the event on May 3, 2025.
Blue Screen claims these remarks were defamatory and damaging to the company’s reputation, prompting them to take legal action against both Ngema and her company, MaWhoo Entertainment (Pty) Ltd.
The lawsuit follows a contract signed on February 9, 2025, where Ngema, through Mawhoo Entertainment, agreed to perform at the festival.
Blue Screen maintains they fulfilled their end of the agreement by paying in full, with proof of payment attached to the summons, but say the artist went on to make “reckless and unfounded statements” that they believe tarnished the company’s image.
“The 1st Defendant’s actions constitute a serious act of defamation and have inflicted reputational and potential commercial damage to the Plaintiff,” reads part of the summons dated May 19.
The entertainment company, headquartered in Sandton, is seeking R1 million in damages, along with interest and full legal costs.
A demand letter was issued on May 16, asking Ngema to retract her alleged statements and issue a formal apology, a request the company says was ignored.
“The Defendant has failed, refused and/or neglected to make such apology,” the filing states, which led to the formal court action.
Blue Screen’s legal representative, Advocate Prince Mafu, warned that if Ngema and her company do not respond within 10 days of being served, the court could issue a default judgment. They will then have 20 days to submit a plea or counterclaim.
