Journalist and government critic Hopewell Chin’ono has thrown his support behind social media personality and actress Felistas,Murata, popularly known as Mai TT, after her remarks about Zimbabweans’ fascination with foreign personalities sparked widespread debate.
The discussion comes at a time of heightened tensions between South Africans and foreign nationals following anti-immigrant protests in South Africa, which have also spilled into the entertainment sector.
South African artists Mafikizolo and Musa Keys were reportedly removed from promotional material for scheduled performances in Zimbabwe, prompting debate over whether local audiences should continue supporting foreign performers during periods of strained relations.
Mai TT argued that Zimbabweans often become overly impressed by foreign accents, celebrities and personalities, even when such admiration works against their own interests.
Hopewell Chin’ono agreed with her position.
“Mai TT is right on many of the points she raises in this video. Zimbabweans are among the easiest people to impress with foreign things, and sometimes even with things that work against their own interests,” Chin’ono wrote.
He further argued that many Zimbabweans are quick to embrace people who simply say things they want to hear.
“Kungotaura one thing that impresses them, even kana uriwe ZANU-PF yavatambudza, vanobva vatomhanya kupage kwako. It’s immediately, ‘my brother’, ‘my sister’, ‘our mother’ or ‘mudhara wedu’.”
Chin’ono said people should judge public figures based on their character and conduct rather than nationality or accents.
“We need to learn to judge people by their values, principles, consistency and actions, not by one impressive statement or a foreign accent. That lack of discernment is one of the reasons we are so easily manipulated.”
Mai TT also argued that Zimbabweans often seek validation from foreign personalities, particularly those from South Africa.
According to her, local audiences sometimes elevate celebrities who merely mention Zimbabwe, speak a few words of Shona or publicly identify with the country.
She said many foreign artists performing in Zimbabwe are invited and paid by Zimbabwean promoters, including those based in South Africa, rather than by South African promoters themselves.
Her comments came amid calls by some Zimbabweans to boycott certain South African artists following anti-foreigner demonstrations in South Africa.
Social media users who reacted to Chin’ono’s post largely agreed with both him and Mai TT.
Frank Slade wrote:
“Impressionable was the precise word she was looking for.”
Tendayi Mupimbira added:
“Cat Mother spitting undiluted facts right there. 100 percent.”
Samanyika Wenharo said:
“Problem is we think to be associated with anything from South Africa automatically means wakapenga.”
Lavinia Makuyana commented:
“She was on point. Us Zimbabweans, we are usable.”
Bright Moyo argued that South African artists who publicly supported anti-foreigner sentiments should not be allowed to perform in Zimbabwe until tensions subside.
“The South African artists who have voiced out in favour of their country should be put on hold till further notice. Now is not the right timing.”
The debate has exposed differing opinions on how Zimbabweans view foreign personalities and celebrities. While some agree with Mai TT and Chin’ono that Zimbabweans are too easily impressed by foreign accents and validation, others argue that appreciating foreign artists and cultures should not be mistaken for a lack of patriotism.
For supporters of the two public figures, the issue goes beyond entertainment and celebrity culture.
They argue that Zimbabweans need to develop greater discernment and evaluate individuals based on their values, actions and principles rather than their nationality or popularity.