Ndiredi hitmaker slams Nomzamo Mbatha and Shaka iLembe for not appreciating her for her signature hairstyle
Mapaballo Borotho

South African songstress Simphiwe Dana has voiced her disappointment with the Shaka iLembe production team and actress Nomzamo Mbatha for allegedly “copying” her signature Afrocentric hairstyle without giving her due credit.
Known for her soulful jazz music and strong Afrocentric identity, Dana has long embraced hairstyles rooted in African culture, making them a central part of her brand.
The Ndiredi hitmaker recently reposted a picture of Mbatha on Instagram, expressing frustration that she has not been acknowledged for popularising the look.
She stated that it is “disappointing” not to be recognised, especially since the hairstyle is widely associated with her image and artistic identity.
Women featured in Shaka iLembe also sport similar Afrocentric hairstyles, a deliberate creative choice aimed at authentically reflecting the cultural heritage of the Zulu people.
Mbatha, who stars in Mzansi Magic’s Shaka iLembe, has been showcasing an array of traditional hairstyles both on-screen and in promotional appearances for the series.
In a now-deleted Instagram post, Dana said she found it disappointing that Mbatha had not acknowledged her, although she loves her.
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