Outspoken South African poet and activist Ntsiki Mazwai has once again stirred controversy online, this time accusing Trevor Noah of being an “industry plant” for staying silent on international claims of a so-called white genocide in South Africa.
Mazwai’s remarks follow renewed global attention to South Africa’s racial landscape, particularly after former U.S. President Donald Trump resurfaced unverified allegations suggesting that white citizens face systemic violence in the country.
The debate escalated after a post on X (formerly Twitter) praised actress Viola Davis for vocally standing with South Africa. Ntsiki responded by questioning Trevor Noah’s lack of public commentary on the issue, writing bluntly:
“Plants don’t have a voice, my love.”
The term “industry plant” refers to individuals who are perceived as authentic or self-made, but are in fact backed by powerful industry forces—often remaining non-controversial to preserve their mainstream appeal.
Ntsiki’s comments quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions from social media users.
While some defended Trevor Noah, citing the potential professional risks and loss of sponsorships celebrities face for taking political stances, others backed Ntsiki’s critique.
One user commented:
“I used to get mad when celebs kept quiet, but then I realised that Darkies never do shyt when the celebs fall from grace… We want them to talk, but if they lose sponsors, we don’t boycott those sponsors.”
Another response, however, took a more divisive turn, stating:
“If it upsets you, go back to the Congo, my dear settler.”
Trevor Noah, who has built a global career as a comedian and former host of The Daily Show, has not publicly responded to the accusations. The incident adds to an ongoing conversation around celebrity responsibility, racial dynamics, and the power of platforms in shaping global narratives about South Africa.
