A statement released by Kujenga, one of South Africa’s leading jazz bands, has opened what many are describing as a “Pandora’s box,” sparking widespread online conversation.
The initial public statement announced the band’s decision to part ways with one of its co-founders. However, it offered limited detail regarding the reasons behind the split, leaving fans with unanswered questions and growing speculation.
Shortly after, screenshots began circulating online, alleging misconduct and accusing the band’s guitarist of inappropriate behaviour. The claims quickly intensified public scrutiny and fueled further debate across social media platforms
In response to the mounting speculation, Kujenga released a second statement aimed at clarifying the co-founder’s departure. In this follow-up, the band cited a financial breach of trust as the reason for the split.
The statement also directly addressed the allegations involving one of its active members, urging the public not to draw conclusions based on unverified information.
As the situation continues to unfold, public reaction has been vocal and divided, with audiences weighing in on both the allegations and the band’s handling of the matter.
Social Media Reactions:
This is where things get complicated. Because we’re complicated, layered & dynamic.
If we throw that band away, then we have to throw most of them away. And then we don’t have the South African Jazz scene that’s been glorified for decades. Almost no-one will remain.
This Kujenga statement? 🤚🏾
— mngqusho muncher (@lubszote) May 11, 2026
We are being gaslit. Throw the whole band away
Kujenga shouldn’t have released a statement.
— My Kheswa 🇵🇸 (@ThandoAfrika) May 8, 2026
Taba ya Kujenga has taken a different shape to the former which is becoming because this is Twitter. I suppose this was always going to be the outcome. Godspeed to that band.
Kujenga... ja, no. pic.twitter.com/EK9lDLZeSX
— 🍉Rushé 🇵🇸🇸🇩🇨🇩 (@Rushe_C) May 11, 2026
I watched Kujenga perform live once - like two years ago when they still have a white guy and the girl in the group and they were so so good. I also wondered why their lineup kept changing. Now all this controversy that came out 💀 https://t.co/MW2cN6PR4R
— Layla (@footballfoodfun) May 11, 2026
I’ve known for a while now, was just waiting to see an official statement. I hope it’s just creative differences and there won’t be permanent bad blood. I’ll continue to support both Kujenga and Zwide, unless something damaging comes to light.
Kujenga are going to ruin my Kokoroko experience; I need them removed from the lineup
— Thoni (@sonictonalthoni) May 11, 2026
why would kujenga do this to themselves during what seems to be the peak of their careers. haska, mxm
— αsive ✰ (@sivmabula) May 11, 2026
Very disappointed but not surprised by the Kujenga mess. And I was really enjoying their music. 😤 My fault, I forgot my own golden rule about not getting attached to men artists because it’s always something with them.
Kujenga basically set up a jury system to address serious allegations against one of their own. Bathi they “reviewed” the chats & found nothing that points to grooming or sexual misconduct. Mkr
— Lerato. (@baddaysareover) May 11, 2026
what bores me about this kujenga thing is that i just started listening to their music man, what's with the controversy?😭
— a y a ★ (@ayabngr) May 11, 2026
Recent stories by:
Sindeka Mandoyi
6 Protective hairstyles to keep your hair healthy this winter
Africa Month Spotlight: David Tlale transforms Gautrain Sandton station with AW26/27 “I Am Africa, Not African” showcase
How to stay consistent with your exercise routine this winter
10 Miss South Africa 2026 video entries that have captured our attention
Nomzamo Mbatha stuns in Nigerian designers at Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards 2026
GLAMOUR Recommends
Cape Town swings into its biggest Jazz weekend yet
New Music Friday: The best new albums to stream this weekend
Mariah the Scientist to headline WAV Festival 2026 in Cape Town
South Africa’s biggest music festivals 2025: Lauryn Hill, Esperanza Spalding, Summer Walker and more on stage
Rise of unconventional music spaces: The Cape Town jazz train
Maglera Doe Boy and Kujenga set to deliver a groundbreaking fusion of rap and jazz
