South African amapiano sensation Scotts Maphuma has drawn sharp criticism following his abrupt withdrawal from a high-profile children’s festival in Mozambique , where he was scheduled to headline on June 1, 2025 . Reports indicate that Maphuma’s absence disrupted the event, prompting organizers to label his actions “unacceptable” and initiate legal proceedings over alleged contract violations . Local media in Mozambique revealed that the artist was detained briefly by authorities for questioning before being released, though details remain unclear due to technical restrictions on full article access.
The incident has ignited a social media firestorm, with fans and event attendees expressing outrage over what they described as a “disrespectful” snub. One Mozambican attendee wrote, “We waited hours for him—kids were heartbroken. This isn’t professionalism”. Maphuma’s representatives have yet to issue a formal apology, though insiders suggest logistical challenges or personal emergencies may have contributed to the no-show .
This controversy adds to a growing list of challenges for South African artists navigating international commitments. While Maphuma’s team has remained silent, critics argue such incidents risk tarnishing reputations in an industry reliant on trust and reliability. As legal discussions unfold, the episode underscores the delicate balance between managing global careers and honoring grassroots obligations—a lesson that could resonate across the amapiano scene.
