Zasuka Entertainment which was co-owned by the late Mbongeni Ngema has accused the SABC of stealing an idea of a TV show they initially pitched to the public broadcaster. Zasuka Entertainment’s idea is a TV show titled Zasuka Traditional Music Talent Search By Mbongeni Ngema . The reality show is premised on finding the best talent in three Mzansi music genres Maskandi, Scathamiya and Mbaqanga.
But last weekend auditions were held in Joburg’s Kwa Mai Mai for a new SABC TV show titled uShuni Womhlaba , which is eerily similar to Zasuka Entertainment’s show that was pitched to the SABC just months before. “We are currently getting legal counsel and exploring if we’re going to claim for licensing,” Moipone Khaoli told The Citizen . Khaoli is one of the creators of Zasuka’s TV show, together with Ngema, Mark Roth, Sam Ncokazi and Charles Khoza.
68-year-old Ngema passed away in a head-on collision in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape on the evening of December 27 last year. “Mbogeni was so excited about this show, he passionate about this idea and was excited when the SABC invited us for the pitch,” averred Khaoli. Zasuka Traditional Music Talent Search By Mbongeni Ngema ’s pilot episode was hosted by child star Siphiwe Mtshali.
Zaskua Entertainment claims it has spent R290 000 in the development, shooting and marketing of the show’s pilot episode. The show hosted auditions last April at Durban’s The Bat Centre. ALSO READ: WATCH: Sarafina! creator Mbongeni Ngema die.
