Econet Zimbabwe Faces Social Media Backlash Over Mafikizolo Concert Amid Calls for Support for Zimbabweans in South Africa

Econet Zimbabwe has come under criticism on social media after promoting an upcoming Buddie Beatz concert featuring South African music duo Mafikizolo, with many users questioning whether the telecommunications company should instead be providing humanitarian support to Zimbabweans affected by recent developments in South Africa.

The criticism emerged on Facebook over the weekend after Econet advertised the concert, scheduled for 5 July 2026 in Victoria Falls. Hundreds of reactions and comments followed, with many users arguing that the timing of the promotion was inappropriate given ongoing concerns affecting Zimbabwean nationals in South Africa.

While the comments reflect public opinion rather than confirmed facts, they have sparked a wider discussion about corporate social responsibility and what role large companies should play during periods of hardship affecting the communities they serve.

Why Are Zimbabweans Criticising Econet Zimbabwe?

Much of the criticism centres on the belief that Econet, one of Zimbabwe’s largest companies, should use its resources to assist citizens facing challenges instead of investing in a major entertainment event.

Many Facebook users questioned why the company was able to sponsor a concert featuring internationally recognised artists while some Zimbabweans were calling for additional support for people returning from or affected by events in South Africa.

Several comments urged the company to provide buses or other forms of transport for Zimbabweans who may need assistance. Others argued that even a humanitarian initiative would have been better received than a music event under the current circumstances.

Some users went as far as encouraging others to stop using Econet services, while others simply appealed to the company to reconsider its priorities.

At the time of publication, these views remained public opinions expressed on social media and had not been addressed in an official statement from the company.

Mafikizolo Concert Promotion Sparks Debate

The controversy followed Econet’s promotion of the Buddie Beatz Concert, which is expected to take place at Baobab Primary School in Victoria Falls on 5 July 2026.

According to the promotional material, the event will feature South African music duo Mafikizolo and forms part of the company’s Buddie Beatz campaign.

Although many users welcomed the opportunity to see the award-winning group perform, a significant number of commenters shifted the discussion away from the concert itself and focused on broader social issues.

Instead of discussing ticket sales or the event programme, many comments centred on whether corporate sponsorships should take precedence over community assistance during difficult times.

The discussion quickly gained traction, attracting hundreds of comments within a short period.

Growing Discussion About Corporate Social Responsibility

The online reaction has also reignited debate about the responsibilities of major corporations during periods of economic or social difficulty.

Some social media users argued that companies which have built loyal customer bases should demonstrate their commitment to those communities through practical assistance when challenges arise.

Others noted that corporate marketing budgets and community investment programmes are often separate, meaning money allocated for sponsorships is not necessarily available for humanitarian initiatives.

Regardless of differing opinions, the discussion illustrates how corporate decisions are increasingly scrutinised on social media, where public perception can change rapidly.

For large organisations, promotional campaigns launched during sensitive periods may attract attention beyond their original marketing objectives.

Has Econet Responded to the Criticism?

At the time of writing, Econet Zimbabwe had not publicly responded to the social media criticism surrounding the Buddie Beatz concert.

It also remains unclear whether the company intends to comment on the concerns raised by members of the public or announce any community support initiatives related to Zimbabweans affected by recent events.

As the discussion continues online, many users say they hope to hear the company’s position on the matter.

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