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Showbiz Reporter

The Victoria Falls Carnival has reached an amicable resolution with South African musicians DJ Maphorisa, Kabza De Small and Shasha, following a widely publicised dispute that involved police and court intervention.

The controversy arose after the trio failed to attend the 2022 carnival, the last time the event was held in Zimbabwe.

Carnival organisers accused the artistes of breaching their contract despite being fully paid, subsequently demanding the repayment of the funds received, as well as the costs of unused flights and accommodation.

Sha Sha

Months later, while performing in Bulawayo, DJs— Kabza De Small and Maphorisa were detained at a hotel for seven hours due to an arrest warrant issued against them for their absence at the carnival.

A writ from the Bulawayo High Court mandated that they provide security of US$18 395,82 to avoid civil imprisonment. The duo managed to evade arrest by partially refunding the amount.

Later, the Bulawayo High Court Judge, Justice Martin Makonese, ordered the Victoria Falls Carnival to repay US$18 400 to Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa, which they had previously paid as security.

The carnival organisers announced their intention to appeal this order.

This week, however, Vic Falls Carnival director, Brent Williamson announced that they had reconciled with the South African artistes and are looking forward to future collaborations.

               Justice Martin Makonese

“Victoria Falls Carnival is pleased to announce a successful and amicable resolution in the recent legal matter involving Themba Sekowe (DJ Maphorisa), Kabelo Motha (Kabza De Small), Charmaine Shamiso Mapimbiro (Shasha) and Lawk Communications,” Williamson stated.

“With the expert guidance of Tailormade Legal Solutions and the skilled facilitation of Mashwede Holdings, both parties have reached a mutually beneficial agreement, paving the way for future collaboration.

“We’re thrilled to put this matter behind us and look forward to the future.”

Williamson also expressed gratitude to international events curator, Bongani Ngwenya, for his strategic guidance and to Mashwede Holdings for their support in facilitating this resolution.

“This agreement reaffirms the commitment of Victoria Falls Carnival and Lawk Communications to providing enriching experiences for fans across the region. With this understanding in place, DJ Maphorisa, Kabza De Small and Sha Sha are welcome back to Zimbabwe to perform at future festivals without restriction,” Williamson said.